Investigation launched into death of worker at Cane Grove construction site

The Ministry of Labour’s Occupational Safety and Health Department has launched an investigation into the tragic death of 28-year-old Jermaine Hercules, who died while working at a rice mill in Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara, on Friday.

Hercules, a labourer from Lot 4 Airy Hall, Mahaicony, was employed by a contractor tasked with repairing the roof of A. Cayume Hakh & Sons, Rice Millers & Exporters. Reports indicate that while working to fix leaking zinc sheets, he fell approximately 30 feet to the ground. Hercules was rushed to the Mahaicony Hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Occupational Safety and Health Officer Johana Vaughn, responsible for the East Coast Demerara region, conducted a preliminary investigation at the site. The investigation aims to determine the cause of the fatal accident and provide recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Meanwhile, Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton, expressed his deep concern over the incident, reiterating that every worker should expect to return home safely at the end of the workday. The investigation into the fatality is ongoing, with further details expected in the coming days.