Death from falling branch: tragedy on Heidelberg playground
Death from falling branch: tragedy on Heidelberg playground
Last Sunday there was a tragic incident on a children's playground in Heidelberg, which not only shocked the person present, but could also initiate a deeper discussion about security in public facilities. A 39-year-old father was hit by a falling branch and, despite immediate first aid measures, succumbed to his most serious injuries. This frightening accident occurred in front of his family, while playing with one of his two children, which was luckily unharmed. The man's wife was supervised after the incident because she was visibly in shock. ZVW reports on the dramatic circumstances and ongoing investigations by the Heidelberg criminal police department, which still have to clarify the exact cause of the accident.The shattering message from the accident stops you and raises the question of how often such incidents not only happen in playgrounds, but also at work. The situation is similar in landscape maintenance, where many accidents are reported every year. In 2022, 12,602 reportable work accidents were registered in the horticultural and landscape nursing industry alone, including tragic incidents that even ended fatally. SVLFG informs that most accidents on tree felling work and when caring for shrubs and hedges, which reinforces the potential risks in these areas.
increase in security concerns
Back to the incident in Heidelberg: The exact circumstances that led to the demolition of the branch remain unclear. Are there any signs of illness or damage to the tree? Such questions arise, given the fact that around 570 people were injured with branches last year in accidents. It was found that tree felling work, especially in urban areas, is often carried out with inadequate safety precautions.
This problem is not only limited to Heidelberg. In Augsburg-Hochzoll, a 49-year-old man also suffered life-threatening injuries from a falling branch during tree felling work. [Augsburger Allgemeine reports] (https://www.augsburger-allgemeine.de/augsburg/schwerer- Betriebszlall-in-augsburg-Hochzoll-Herbstuerzender-Aast-Astroß-Asthe 49-Jaehrigen-Lebenschührlich-10599710) about measures that were taken after the incident, including the immediate alarm. A disturbing image of the security conditions in the industry is created.
safety precautions urgently needed
The discussion about security measures in landscape maintenance and in public places is becoming increasingly important. After all, there were 12,957 accidents in the horticultural industry in 2021, two of them with a fatal outcome. It is clear that the industry is responsible for implementing the best possible measures to protect their workers and the public. The prevention report of the SVLFG can help to identify the urgently needed changes.
The playground in Heidelberg remains cordoned off until Monday, while the investigation is continued. The affected family and the witnesses of the incident still experience the effects of this devastating accident. Our sympathy applies to the family of the deceased and everyone who is involved in this terrible event.
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| Ort | Heidelberg, Deutschland |
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