Contractor Lifecycle: Selection, Supervision, Close-Out Fatality File

Contractor Killed Due to Lack of Supervision and Hazard Communication

A contractor was hired to perform maintenance work at an industrial facility. The worker was assigned to complete a task involving equipment that required isolation before work could begin. However, the contractor did not receive a full site-specific briefing and was not informed of all energy sources connected to the equipment. Believing the system was safe, the contractor began work.

During the task, the equipment unexpectedly activated due to an uncontrolled energy source. The contractor was caught in the machinery and suffered fatal injuries. The investigation found critical failures in the contractor lifecycle, including inadequate hazard communication, lack of proper supervision, and failure to verify lockout/tagout procedures. The incident highlighted how gaps between host employer and contractor responsibilities can lead to fatal outcomes.

Source: https://www.osha.gov