Prosecutors file charges in fatal workplace accident involving 15-year-old in Pori

Prosecutors have filed charges related to a fatal accident that occurred in Pori last summer involving a 15-year-old summer worker. The individual was found dead between the rollers of a log table attached to a log cutting machine at a firewood company where they had been employed for three weeks. No eyewitnesses were present at the scene.

The charges include involuntary manslaughter and violations of workplace safety regulations. At this time, the prosecutor has not commented on potential penalties. The Satakunta District Court will schedule a hearing date for the case later.

An investigation by the Accident Investigation Board (Otkes) revealed numerous safety deficiencies on the employer’s part. It was determined that a worker under 16 should not have been assigned dangerous tasks, which include working alone in hazardous conditions. Otkes stressed in its report that young workers are prohibited from operating machinery and equipment that poses risks of cuts or crushing injuries.

Overall, Otkes indicated that the case involved a young worker with limited experience being directed to operate a log cutting machine and log table that lacked adequate safety features, while also working alone without supervision.