OSHA investigating death of worker in Wichita Northwest Water Facility accident
WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - Update: It’s been nearly two weeks since a man died in a workplace accident at the new water plant site.
What happened and what additional safety measures are being made were discussed at Tuesday’s Wichita City Council meeting. OSHA and Wichita Water Partners were contacted within hours of the incident and are conducting an investigation.
Work on the plant was suspended for a couple of days but is now back open.
Alan King, Director of Public Works for the City of Wichita, said, “and then they slowly went back to work after a couple of days is my understanding of retraining and talking about folks, going out and inspecting, they’ve added safety staff to this project. so, we’re satisfied that they are also taking it seriously and are taking steps to further reduce the risk of something like this happening.”
The new plant at 21st and Zoo Boulevard will replace the city’s existing water treatment plant. It’s scheduled for completion in 2024.
The Wichita Water Partners released a statement Thursday afternoon regarding a death a the Wichita Northwest Water Facility project site.
The group said around 9:30 a.m., an employee of a subcontractor was fatally injured. The team member received immediate medical attention from project safety personnel and was transported by emergency medical responders to a local hospital, the Wichita Water Partners said.
“Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and co-workers. All work activities on-site have been stopped until further notice. We are committed to working closely with those on the investigation,” said the group in a statement.
Grief counselors are available to assist team members during this difficult time.
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