Three employees were changing a fan motor on a platform. The employees removed the old motor and lowered it through an opening in the catwalk/platform that was approximately 4' x 4' using a chain hoist. They then hoisted up the new motor and were securing it into place. Employee 2 called employee 1 to look at the alignment of a series of pulleys to make sure it was correct. When Employee 1 stepped around the motor, they stepped into the opening in the platform. Employee 1 grabbed onto Employee 2 pulling him into the hole in the platform as well. Both employees fell approximately 12 feet to the platform below and employee 1 struck the old motor that had been removed. Both employees suffered broken bones, contusions, and abrasions. Employee 1 was hospitalized for a broken pelvis.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration