A factory electrician survived a fall into a 720°C molten aluminum tank in St. Gallen, Switzerland.
According to local authorities, the accident took place last Wednesday (9). He was rescued with severe and extensive burns, being transported by helicopter to a hospital in the region afterwards.
The victim is a 25-year-old man who has not been identified, according to the German newspaper SWR Aktuell. The police of St. Gallen claimed that he fell through an opening while working above the cauldron with high-temperature material.
According to reports collected by authorities from co-workers, the man was left with his legs immersed in the molten metal up to his knees, but managed to support himself and climb out of the tank.
He was admitted to the hospital with severe burns. Local police spokesperson Dionys Widmer said the victim’s limbs did not need to be amputated so far, but he remains under observation in stable condition.
The Public Ministry has not yet opened a formal investigation into the accident.
A 55-year-old worker at the factory where the accident took place, in an interview with the Swiss newspaper 20 Minuten, said that the aluminum tank must be closed to avoid accidents like this – according to him, a trip could have serious consequences. “It’s sad. But the accident can only be explained by negligence.”
Authorities continue to collect clues to understand the dynamics of the incident and determine if there was any unsafe conduct or condition at the factory.
With a wealth of experience honed over 4+ years in journalism, I bring a seasoned voice to the world of news. Currently, I work as a freelance writer and editor, always seeking new opportunities to tell compelling stories in the field of world news.
