Indiana OSHA is investigating the death of an employee at an iron foundry. A coroner’s report says extreme heat contributed to the man’s death.
Charles Hulse, 50, was found unconscious and not breathing by co-workers at CE Systems in Columbus, IN. He’d collapsed at his work station.
Reports say on that day, Hulse had been feeling overwhelmed by the heat, but had taken a break in a cool room before returning to work.
Some workers at the foundry say the indoor temperatures in the area where Hulse worked could reach up to 160°. Outdoor temperatures on the day he died reached into the mid-90s, with a heat index of 115.
Indiana OSHA says companies are required to report workplace fatalities to the state within eight hours, but Hulse’s wasn’t reported for four days.
The coroner’s report says Hulse died of a heart attack complicated by extreme heat.
State officials say the recent heat wave prompted dozens of calls from workers across Indiana asking about their rights. At least 50 people from various companies complained about uncomfortable working conditions.
The best way to counter hot working conditions: water, rest and shade.
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