OSHA report finds drowning of excavator operator was preventable

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — A recent report from the US Department of Labor reveals the workplace death of heavy equipment operator on Eagle Island was preventable. 

In August, 27-year-old Austin Furner drowned after his excavator turned over into the Cape Fear River. 

After an OSHA investigation, the Department of Labor found that RIGID Constructors failed to comply with federal safety standards, including failure to provide life jackets, ring buoys, or a 90-foot line for emergencies among other violations. 

The Department of Labor is fining the construction company $50,703 in penalties. 

WWAY reached out to legal counsel for the Furner family but we have not heard back as of Friday evening.