Tragic Electrocution Accident in Guyana: Worker Dies While Erecting Telephone Pole - News Guyana

A tragic incident occurred in No.52 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, on Saturday, resulting in the death of 27-year-old Michael Anthony Benjamin. Benjamin, a foreman with a utility company and a resident of Dukestown, Corriverton, was electrocuted while working with several others to erect a telephone pole.

According to reports, Benjamin was operating a four-tonne truck with a hydraulic lift that was carrying the pole. He was working with Oddel Kyte and four others to erect the wooden structure when the incident occurred at approximately 12:20 hrs. Kyte was holding the pole when it came into contact with an electrical line, causing a fatal electrocution.

Kyte felt a vibration throughout his body and immediately let go of the post. He rushed to check on Benjamin, who was lying motionless on the ground. Sadly, Benjamin was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Skeldon Public Hospital.

Following the incident, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) issued a statement clarifying that Benjamin was not an employee of their company. "Contrary to a social media post, the young man was not employed nor contracted by GPL. Our preliminary investigation revealed the young man was employed by another utility company that was carrying out work in the Berbice area when their bucket truck came into contact with our network," GPL noted.

This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the dangers involved in the construction and maintenance of utility infrastructure. The incident has understandably caused shock and sadness among the local community. Michael Anthony Benjamin was a young man with a promising future, and his death has left his family and friends in mourning. Reports indicate that he was a dedicated worker who took pride in his job and always went the extra mile to get things done.

This tragedy also highlights the importance of workplace safety and the need for proper training and equipment when working with electricity. Employers must ensure that their workers are adequately trained and equipped with the necessary safety gear to prevent such accidents from happening. It is essential to implement strict safety protocols and conduct regular inspections to ensure that all equipment and machinery are in good working order.

Furthermore, it is essential to provide support and counseling services for Benjamin's colleagues and loved ones during this difficult time. The trauma of such a tragic event can have a significant impact on individuals, and it is essential to ensure that they receive the necessary support and resources to cope with their grief.

The Guyana Power and Light has expressed their condolences to Benjamin's family and assured the public that they are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. They have also urged the public to exercise caution around electrical infrastructure and report any suspicious activity immediately.

As the investigation continues, it is hoped that lessons will be learned from this tragedy and that steps will be taken to prevent similar accidents in the future. The loss of a young life is a tragedy that affects us all, and it is incumbent upon us to do everything in our power to prevent such incidents from happening again.