NASHVILLE – Following media reports that flash floods swept away employees of Impact Plastics in Erwin while they were on the job, the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA) has opened an investigation into the tragic workplace fatalities. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of several workers, has sparked concern and questions about safety protocols at the company.
Currently, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding these fatalities. Their investigation takes precedence over TOSHA’s jurisdiction. As a result, TOSHA officials will be coordinating with TBI and local authorities to determine when they can begin their own on-site inspection of the workplace.
Under Tennessee law, employers are required to notify TOSHA within eight hours of a workplace fatality. However, as of now, Impact Plastics management has not filed a fatality report with TOSHA regarding this incident.
When TOSHA begins its investigation, it will typically involve a thorough survey of the site where the fatalities occurred, a review of company records and safety procedures, and interviews with both management and employees. These investigations are methodical and can take up to six months to complete.
To maintain the integrity of the investigation, TOSHA does not release any preliminary information about the incident. Once the investigation is finalized, the full report, including the agency’s findings, will be made available to the public for review.
Chris Cannon Chief Communications Officer
Assistant Commissioner
