Saint-Ghislain, Wallonia – A tragic workplace accident occurred on Monday morning near the E19 motorway exit in Saint-Ghislain, claiming the life of a maintenance worker.
The incident was confirmed by local police to Belga News Agency, with the Charleroi labour auditor, Sophie Saelens, also informed of the matter.
According to Saelens, the worker was fatally struck by a falling tree while carrying out vegetation maintenance in the area. “The employee was struck by a falling tree he was cutting and died instantly,” she stated to Belga News Agency.
The accident prompted an immediate response from emergency services and law enforcement, who set up a response unit on the right side of the exit ramp leading towards Saint-Ghislain city centre.
Traffic in the area was affected as authorities worked to secure the scene and investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.
Workplace safety control services have been dispatched to the site to assess the conditions under which the work was being carried out.
While Saelens has confirmed she will not be directly involved in the inspection, the findings of the investigation could lead to further inquiries into potential safety violations.
“If the investigation uncovers any lapses in workplace safety protocols, further legal proceedings could be initiated,” an official source stated.
The victim’s identity has not yet been disclosed, pending notification of the family. Authorities are also expected to determine whether all necessary safety measures were in place at the time of the accident.
This incident highlights the potential dangers faced by maintenance workers, particularly those involved in tree-cutting operations near major roads.
Experts have previously emphasised the importance of strict safety guidelines, including the use of protective gear, secure working zones, and proper risk assessments before commencing such tasks.
The authorities are urging employers to reinforce safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. Meanwhile, colleagues of the deceased worker, as well as members of the local community, have expressed their shock and sadness over the tragic loss.
Further updates are expected as the workplace safety audit progresses and additional details emerge regarding the cause of the accident.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
