Three separate deaths of workers in Michigan, Oregon and Pennsylvania, occurred last week due to accidents while using machinery tools and equipment.

The first incident in Michigan involved a 21-year-old window washer who fell while rigging down the Grand Rapids Art Museum on Wednesday afternoon.  Reports say that his rig gave way as he made his way down from the roof of the building.

The second death happened in North Portland on Wednesday night while a man was operating a 40-foot lathe and got caught in it.  None of his co-workers saw what happened until they heard noises and that’s when they turned off the machine.

The last incident in Northern Pennsylvania on Thursday was a drilling accident where a worker’s skull was crushed when his head was caught between a control box and a drilling rig.

OSHA is looking into all three cases.

Let’s look at some issues that were raised from these three incidents and what needs to be done to avoid them from happening in your workplace.

1.  For the window washer incident, why did the rig give way?  Was it not properly anchored?  Was it too windy?

• First and foremost, always remember that you need a certificate on professional window washing before you can do the task.
• Since you’ll be working on suspended platforms, keep your tools to a minimum.  Bring only what is necessary.  Know the platform’s load capacity and do not overload it.
• Also, keep the platform clean (oil- and grease-free) and clutter-free so that you avoid any slipping or tripping accident.
• Check that the supports and anchors of the platform are strong enough.
• Be knowledgeable of fall protection systems.  Wear the appropriate body harnesses.  See to it that all connections are fastened, locked and secured.
• As much as possible, do not wash windows on windy days, especially at high altitudes.  This is dangerous.  Clean when the weather is more peaceful.

2.  For lathe safety, remember that it is your responsibility to safely operate and properly maintain the machine.  The following are some tips for you:

• Read, understand and follow the owner’s manual.
• Taking off from the second incident, do not wear loose clothes and dangling accessories that might get caught in moving or rotating parts of the machine and might pull you towards it.  If you have long hair, tie it.
• Remove objects from the lathe bed before turning it on.
• Keep your hands away from moving parts.  Specific lathe parts should be guarded.
• Wear durable PPE that will protect your eyes from flying objects.
• Wear sturdy and closed shoes that will protect your feet from any sharp objects on the floor or that might fall on the floor.
• Start a lathe at low speed and then increase the speed gradually if necessary.
• Never leave a lathe that is turned on.

3.  For drilling safety that refers to the last incident, here are useful reminders for you.

• Wear hard hats all the time.  Use gloves when working with ropes.
• Don’t forget to install machine guards and other safeguards where necessary.
• Use forklifts properly.
• Make sure your pipe racks are leveled properly.
• When there are suspended or moving pipes and other objects, remember to stand clear.  Always be aware of your environment.  Keep your hands away from moving chains.
• Use the proper techniques in handling pipes, tools and equipment.  Apply proper hand placement.
• Keep your work area clutter-free and oil- and grease-free.
• Lubricate what needs to be lubricated.  Make sure everything is in good condition.
• Keep all machines and equipment clean and well-maintained.

The above safety tips and reminders are just some things that you have to keep in mind.  Constant training is very important for you to escape death from machine and equipment accidents.  Yes, these accidents happen; but remember, they can be avoided.  Stay safe at work!