An ironworker lost his life, and another was critically injured after falling from scaffolding at the University of Chicago (Illinois) Medicine construction site. The incident occurred during high winds and has prompted an investigation.
David O’Donnell, 27, died after falling nine stories on Thursday afternoon, June 6, 2024. The other worker, who has not been publicly identified, was taken to UChicago Medicine in critical condition. The workers were part of a team building a cancer research center at the university.
According to the Chicago Fire Department, the accident happened around 12:15 p.m. on a windy day, with gusts reaching up to 40 miles per hour. The scaffolding collapse, likely caused by these high winds, resulted in the workers plummeting to the ground from a significant height.
“The winds were powerful that day,” said Larry Langford, a spokesperson for the Chicago Fire Department. “It seems the scaffolding couldn’t withstand the force, leading to this event.”
OSHA has initiated investigations into four companies associated with the construction project: Hi-Tech Stake Out, New Horizon Steel, Turner Construction, and Adjustable Concrete Construction. The general contractor, Turner Construction, has suspended all construction activities and is offering grief counseling services to workers at the site.
David O’Donnell was employed by Hi-Tech Stake Out, a company owned by his father, while the critically injured worker was employed by New Horizon Steel. Adjustable Concrete Construction was responsible for erecting the scaffold.
In a statement, Turner Construction expressed deep sorrow over the incident, stating, “This day is profoundly sad for us. Our hearts are heavy, and we send our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues affected during this challenging period. The safety and well-being of everyone at our sites are of utmost importance. We diligently strive to prevent such tragedies.”
David O’Donnell Sr. voiced his grief and outrage, questioning the decision to proceed with work under such dangerous conditions. “My son was supposed to be safe at work. This accident never should have happened,” he said.
New Horizon Steel also issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to safety. “We are heartbroken over the incident and the tragic loss of life of a worker on the project, who was employed by another contractor. We are relieved that the New Horizon Steel injured employee is stable and expected to recover fully. We are investigating the cause to prevent future occurrences.”
This incident has raised serious questions about the safety protocols and working conditions at construction sites, particularly under adverse weather conditions. OSHA’s investigation will focus on determining the exact cause of the accident and identifying any potential safety violations.
According to industry safety guidelines, scaffold work should cease when wind speeds exceed 25 miles per hour. The winds on the day of the accident far surpassed this threshold, indicating a possible oversight in safety measures.
OSHA has six months to complete its inspection, issue citations, and propose penalties if violations of workplace safety and health regulations are found.