OSHA investigation launched after worker found unconscious in Kansas City, Mo., sewer pipe
(UI) — According to KCTV, a construction worker in Missouri was hospitalized in critical condition on July 8 after he was discovered unresponsive in a sewer pipe. Emergency responders arrived at Old Santa Fe Road just before 8 a.m. and located the man inside a 15-foot manhole.
The Kansas City Fire Department reported encountering dangerously low oxygen levels, measuring only 11%, which posed a serious risk. Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins told KCTV that standard atmospheric oxygen levels are 21%, with anything below 19.5% considered hazardous. The cause of the oxygen depletion remains unclear, as no toxic fumes were detected by their meters.
The worker, a 30-year-old male, was found face down in approximately 6 to 8 inches of water and was initially unresponsive. First responders utilized a rope to extract him from the sewer and administered CPR before transporting him to the hospital.
The worker is employed by Global Earthwork + Underground, a company involved in various projects across Kansas City, including the installation of sewer systems. The company emphasized its commitment to safety and pledged full cooperation with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and local authorities, according to KCTV.
OSHA's area director, Karena Lorek, confirmed no prior violations involving the firm and emphasized the importance of rigorous safety protocols in confined spaces, including continuous monitoring for oxygen levels and explosive gases.
The incident is under investigation by OSHA and the fire department, with an expected timeline of up to six months to determine if any safety violations occurred.
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