Inspection Detail

Inspection: 316213925 - Optimum Inc

Inspection Information - Office: San Bernardino District Office

Investigation Summary

At approximately 2:00 a.m. on September 19, 2013, Employee #1 and Coworker #1, of Optimum Inc., were engaged in road demolition work. They were attempting to move a portable light tower 2 to 3 feet in order to sweep dirt and asphalt from under the light tower. Employee #1 positioned himself directly in front of the light tower and grasped the end of the trailer's towing hitch. Coworker #1 positioned himself on the side of the light tower and grasped the trailer's tow bar neck. As both employees attempted to lift and drag the light tower, the trailer jack collapsed. The light tower began to fall. Coworker #1 immediately let go of the tow bar neck. Employee #1, in an attempt to prevent the light tower from hitting the ground, maintained his grip. When the trailer ball attachment hit the ground, it severed Employee #1's left small finger. Emergency services were called, and Employee #1 was transported to the hospital, admitted, and treated for a finger amputation.

Keywords: AMPUTATED, DEMOLITION, COLLAPSE, FINGER, CONSTRUCTION, TRAILER HITCH, ELECTRIC LIGHT--PORT, TRAILER, JACK, TOWER