A lumberyard worker was fatally struck by a 1,200-pound (543.6 kilogram) metal commercial garage door.

While closing up shop, the victim activated the controls to close one of four overhead metal doors. The controls were next to the door rail. At the same time, someone outside the building yelled at him. The victim stuck his head through the door opening to reply. Witnesses then heard a snap, and the door fell and struck the victim on the back of his head.

Check to see if your workplace is safe from this hazard. Overhead door controls should be far enough away from the door that the operator couldn’t be under the door when it’s activated.