By Thomas J. Morgan
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has proposed a $49,000 fine against AAA Professional Lawn Care of Johnston, holding the company responsible for the July 30 death of worker Leonardo Estrada, who was electrocuted while trimming trees near power lines.
OSHA said that the lawn care company failed to cut the power or ground the lines before work began at 5 Country View Drive. Estrada died when his aluminum pruner came into contact with a 7,200-volt overhead line.
The agency said also that the company should have provided protective equipment to guard against electrical shock, and added that Estrada had not been properly trained.
The company has 15 days to contest the finding.