Worker Dies After Head Caught in Press Machine; Taichung City Orders Work Stoppage and Fines

(CNA reporter Chao Li-Yen, Taichung, June 12) A workplace accident occurred this afternoon at a metal processing manufacturing facility on Hemei Road in Shengang District, Taichung City. An employee operating a press machine suffered head injuries after being caught in the machinery and later died despite medical treatment. The city government's Labor Inspection Office has ordered the site to cease operations for improvements and will issue fines for violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

At 1:03 PM today, Taichung City Fire Department received a report about an injured worker at a metal processing factory on Hemei Road in Shengang District. The caller stated that one employee operating a press machine had suffered head injuries from being caught in the machine, with severe bleeding and no breathing or heartbeat. The fire department immediately dispatched personnel for emergency rescue and provided real-time guidance on DA-CPR and AED operation.

Upon arrival, rescue personnel found the victim without breathing or heartbeat, with an approximately 8-centimeter laceration on the head. After emergency treatment, the victim was transported to the hospital. The patient had no vital signs prior to arrival, and despite resuscitation efforts, was declared dead.

The Taichung City Government Labor Inspection Office released a written statement explaining that inspectors were dispatched to conduct an occupational injury investigation. The company was performing abnormality troubleshooting on a press machine used for metal water tanks, but failed to stop the machine’s operation. During the process, the switch was activated, causing the victim’s head to be caught in the press mold, resulting in fatal injuries and subsequent death despite medical intervention.

The Labor Inspection Office has ordered the site to cease operations for improvements. Violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act will result in fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$300,000. Depending on the severity of the violations, the case may also be referred to judicial authorities for further action. (Edited by Huang Ming-Hsi) 1150612