Fatal work accident: contractor was crushed by a load of hot asphalt

Authorities in Mississippi, United States, investigate the death of a contractor who, during his work day, ended up being buried by a load of hot asphalt that fell on him.

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What do the authorities say?

In dialogue with local news outlet WLBT, authorities said that the fatal work incident occurred during the morning of November 4, 2024 near the AJ Materials store on East McDowell Road in the city of Jackson.

The victim was identified by the Hinds County Coroner as Darrell Sheriff, 41, who “had been buried under hot asphalt after a breakdown with a dump truck.”

Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wide said during a news conference that his condolences, thoughts and heart were with the contractor’s family, calling the work incident a “very horrible and tragic situation.”

For its part, Darrell Sheriff’s acquaintances described him as a good, hard-working man.. Although investigations are underway, at the moment the case is being treated as a accidental death.

“Rest in peace, Darrell Sheriff. We’ve been kids since high school. It’s a shame that life has no guarantees“, “Nothing but love. You never know how or when, you just know that one day it will happen, but you always pray that it doesn’t happen” and “A very humble man“, some of the messages they dedicated to him on networks.

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Dangers of hot asphalt

Those who work with hot asphalt are exposed to a number of risks, especially because This material, which is used to pave streets, is handled at high temperatures during handling, transportation and application.

In addition, may emit vapors containing volatile organic compoundswhich cause irritation, dizziness, nausea and, in the long term, respiratory diseases or cancer.

The ideal is that those who work with him Use appropriate respirators or masks, do so in ventilated areas, and wear protective clothing such as heat-resistant gloves, long-sleeved suits, safety boots, and helmets with visors.

Experts recommend keeping safe work environments and care when handling heavy machinery to avoid accidents of any kind that could end in tragedy.

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