A New Jersey construction worker was injured after falling into a vat of acid while working at a manufacturing plant.
According to officials, the 44-year-old man fell 40 feet into the tank and was completely submerged in the solution, which was 40 to 70 percent nitric acid. Four rescue workers rescued the man from the vat of acid and have been treated for skin irritation and burns that have been considered minor.
Officials have stated that the man is going to be “fine.” The accident occurred on the first day on the job at a metal tube manufacturing plant. It is unknown if the company obtained a permit for working on the site or not.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration will be investigating the incident. Any work-related accident that sends at least three people to the hospital within an eight hour period, must be reported to OSHA and a federal investigation usually occurs as a result.
If you or a loved one has been exposed to toxic material on the job, contact the St. Louis exposure to toxic substances lawyers of the Finney Law Firm by calling 314-646-0300 today.