OSHA investigating local workplace death

KINSMAN, Ohio (WKBN) – The Trumbull County Sheriff’s Office and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are investigating a workplace accident in Kinsman that resulted in a fatality.

The Mahoning County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 37-year-old Jennifer Plant.

The accident happened just before 12:45 p.m. Friday at McGill Septic Tank Company.

A spokesperson with the U.S. Department of Labor said Plant was pinned between a semi-trailer and a forklift while unloading a septic tank. She was taken to St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital where she passed away.

“There is nothing that indicates any type of foul play — very unfortunate accident,” said Trumbull County Sheriff Paul Monroe. “You never expect this to happen. You get up, go to work, and sometimes people don’t come home from work, and it’s very unfortunate –horrific.”

OSHA has opened an inspection with McGill Septic Tank Company. It has six months to complete its investigation, issue citations and suggest penalties if any violations are found.

First News reached out to the company, but it declined to comment citing the ongoing investigation.

The agency previously inspected and found violations at the company in 2013, which resulted in fines for four reported citations that could lead to safety hazards.

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