A landscape worker trimming palm trees with a chain saw was unaware of live power lines hidden within a tree's foliage and was electrocuted when live current passed through the trunk and branches in contact with both the power lines and his equipment. Stunned by the electrical shock, he fell 25 feet to his death.
Attorneys requested us to show the mechanism of death for their digital presentation, demonstrating the transfer of power from the lines to the tree. The jury determined the utility was negligent in keeping it's power lines clear of trees and adjacent foliage. The landscaper's chainsaw contacted a branch that was touching a 13, 800 volt overhead line, causing his death. The jury awarded $21 million.
The OSHA site report documented a lack of training and required safety equipment for the landscaper. Leg, eye and face protection for chain saw operation were absent. The ladder exceeded height requirements. In addition, no work site inspection and training was completed before the workers commenced, critical and standard practice for working in such close proximity to energized power lines. Using the OSHA report, depositions, expert measurements of the tree, location of the power lines and terrain we created a 3D model which enabled the attorneys to pick the perspective that best demonstrated their argument.
