Inspection Detail

Inspection: 119802403 - East Side Mangement

Inspection Information - Office: American Canyon District Office

Investigation Summary

Employee #1 had worked two seasons for this employer, which operates and manages its own and other orchards. On June 9, 1995, Employee #1 was assigned to check drip irrigation lines in an orchard. At approximately 8:00 a.m., he had a discussion with a coworker and left to check a high pressure malfunction. The coworker was concerned when he did not return promptly. At approximately 10:00 a.m., he returned, having fallen off the four-wheel Honda Fortrax ATV that he used for transportation through the orchards. Employee #1 and the coworker rode their respective ATVs back to the shop. Employee #1 was initially reluctant to describe his fall but the maintenance man convinced him to see the foreman. Two hours later, the foreman requested that Employee #1 go to the Redi-Care Industrial Medical Clinic, but the employee refused. Employee #1 then went home, which he shared with coworkers, including his brother. At 6:00 a.m. the following day, the foreman was called to the home. He found Employee #1 either dead or dying and called 911. An autopsy confirmed that death was due to cerebral hemorrhage. Because medical attention was offered by the foreman but refused by Employee #1, no accident-related or other violations were cited.

Keywords: AGRICULTURE, HEMORRHAGE, FALL, BRAIN, MOTOR VEHICLE