Taichung factory worker dies after head crushed by machine; operations halted

A tragic industrial accident in Taichung's Shengang District has resulted in the death of a 47-year-old worker. The incident occurred around 1 p.m. when the employee, identified by the surname Pang, was operating a large punching machine for metal water tanks.

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The head was instantly clamped by the machine, causing severe head fractures and massive bleeding, resulting in the loss of breathing and heartbeat at the scene.

Reports indicate that Pang's head became trapped and severely crushed by the machine during what is believed to be an operational error or a machine malfunction. Emergency services were immediately alerted by colleagues, who found Pang with severe head injuries, massive bleeding, and no vital signs. Despite rapid transport to the hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The Taichung Labor Affairs Bureau has dispatched investigators to the site to conduct a thorough occupational disaster inspection. The factory has been ordered to cease operations pending an investigation into potential violations of the "Occupational Safety and Health Act." If found guilty, the company faces fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$300,000 and possible referral to judicial authorities.

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If violations of the 'Occupational Safety and Health Act' are found, penalties will be imposed according to the law, ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$300,000, and the case may be transferred to judicial authorities depending on the severity of the violation.

The bureau has expressed condolences to the bereaved family and initiated a case management service for victims of occupational disasters to provide assistance and rights consultation. Employers are reminded of their responsibility to ensure machinery is completely stopped and secured with lockout/tagout measures during inspection, maintenance, or troubleshooting to prevent similar tragedies.

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Employers should ensure that mechanical equipment is properly stopped and safety measures such as lockout and tagging are taken when inspecting, maintaining, adjusting, or troubleshooting to prevent similar occupational disasters.