OSHA fines company after worker's electrocution death

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.localnews8.com/Global/story.asp?S=8040026&nav=menu554_2_1

ssociated Press - March 19, 2008 12:34 PM ET

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (AP) - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has fined a construction company over the electrocution death of an employee.

Thirty-8-year-old Kenneth Lahn died Feb. 5 in Jerome after a crane he was working on hit a live power line. The operator of the crane was unharmed, but the 7,000-volt surge grounded through Lahn, killing him.

OSHA Area Director Jerry Hockett says the workers didn't recognize the hazard the power line posed.

OSHA cited Utah-based Allstate Construction, fining the company $4,000 and ordering it to improve safety procedures. Hockett says Allstate officials have since upgraded their safety program to ensure that employees do a better job of analyzing hazards.

Information from: The Times-News, http://www.magicvalley.com