Young Father Killed in His Prime

A young father of two children was killed in an unusual manner in Dayton, OH, late in 2006. Thomas Morgan, 29, was trying to free a jam in a concrete crusher when he was struck by part of the machine.

Although the machine’s operator had shut off the machine, it was still under pressure. When Morgan kicked the machine’s tumbler, which rolls concrete pieces around prior to grinding them into sand, that part of the crusher flipped up and struck him.

Morgan’s employer, Homrich, Inc. of Carleton, MI, was subsequently cited by OSHA for a serious violation alleging failure to provide a place of employment that was free from recognized hazards – in this case, crushing injuries from the unexpected release of energy. Homrich was also cited for failing to conduct frequent and regular inspections and for failure to train employees regarding hazards associated with operating the crusher and clearing jammed materials.

The company, facing proposed penalties of $9,000, is reportedly contesting the charges.