Longshoreworker Killed In Fall Into Hold During Pipe Discharge Operations [Houston, TX ~ 18 June 2016]

Posted by admin on Dec 11, 2016 in Bulletins

While media coverage about this particular accident is virtually non-existent, Blueoceana Company has been made to understand that Alvado Sanchez Torres, 55, a foreman in the employ of Richardson Stevedoring, fell from the edge of stowed pipe within No. 1 hatch of M/V K. JASPER (see photo below) at Greens Port Terminal in Houston on 18 June 2016. 

The length of the fall was estimated to be approximately 40 feet, and information coming to us appears to indicate that the employer had set out fall dampening mats within the lower hold. Unfortunately, the worker fell into and through the edge formed by two such mats and then onto the deck below.

OSHA has conducted an investigation, citing the employer for an alleged violation of 29 CFR 1918.32 (b). The citation has been contested and is presently being litigated.