Accident Report Detail
Accident Summary Nr: 200823615 - Employee Is Asphyxiated When Engulfed by Grain
Inspection Nr | Date Opened | SIC | NAICS | Establishment Name |
---|---|---|---|---|
311246045 | 09/26/2007 | 5153 | 424510 | Access Ag, Inc. |
Abstract: At approximately 11:20 p.m., four employees of a grain coop attempted to unclog a grain bin to maintain the flow of a 230,000-bushel capacity grain bin that was approximately one-fourth full. The bin was 72-ft in diameter and approximately 80-ft high. Employees #1 and #2 entered through the top of the bin and descended the ladder to the grain. No fall protection or personal protective equipment was utilized. One carried a length of conduit, the other a length of rebar, and, with only flashlights for lighting, positioned themselves over the clogged chute and conveyor while two other employees, Employees #3 and #4, attempted the same from the tunnel below the bin. The conveyor was energized and operating during this process. When the chute cleared and the grain flowed Employee #2 began to sink into the grain. Employee #1 grabbed Employee #2 and pulled him free when instantaneously Employee #1 was overcome by the flow of the grain. Employee #2 grabbed Employee #1 to save him but could not retrieve him. Employee #1 disappeared into the grain. Employee #2 screamed and was heard only by a fifth employee who entered the powerhouse and shut down the conveyor system. Numerous Fire and Emergency Medical Service units responded. The coroner was contacted and was on site. Employee #1's body was removed on September 25, 2007 at approximately 5:00 a.m. and he was pronounced dead.
Employee # | Inspection Nr | Age | Sex | Degree of Injury | Nature of Injury | Occupation |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 311246045 | Fatality | Asphyxia | Occupation not reported |