Poisonous Fumes in Confined Space Lead to Three Worker Deaths
Utility workers die after losing consciousness in a drainage hole due to a buildup of hydrogen sulfide and methane. A rescue worker is in the hospital after removing his air pack to enter the confined space.
Three underground utility workers in Florida died Monday after entering a confined space without the proper protective equipment.
The incident, which occurred in Key Largo, Fla., began when the first man removed a manhole cover, entered a 15-foot-deep drainage hole and became unresponsive, according to news reports.
The second worker entered with the intention of saving him but also lost consciousness. Likewise, a third man climbed into the hole was overcome by fumes. All three workers perished. None were wearing any respiratory protective equipment.
