Emergency Response to Excavator Buried Under Rocks at Massachusetts Quarry
An urgent situation unfolded at a quarry in Sterling, Massachusetts, on Thursday, as firefighters and rescue agencies scrambled to the scene where an excavator was buried under rocks and boulders. Aerial footage from local news stations captured the dramatic scene, though details remain sparse.
What Happened at the Sterling Quarry?
On Thursday, an excavator at a quarry site on Chocksett Road in Sterling, about 40 miles (64 kilometres) west of Boston, was reported to be buried under a substantial amount of rocks and boulders. The exact cause of the incident is still under investigation.
Key Details of the Incident:
- Location: The incident occurred at the Onyx Corporation quarry on Chocksett Road.
- Emergency Response: Firefighters and other rescue agencies are on-site working to manage the situation.
- Public Safety: The Sterling Fire Department assured the public that there is no immediate safety threat to nearby residents.
The Emergency Response
The Sterling Fire Department was quick to respond, indicating that the situation is “active” and advising the public to avoid the area. Their online statement noted:
- No Immediate Threat: There is no danger to public safety at this time.
- Ongoing Work: Firefighters and other agencies are actively working at the scene.
Additional Information:
- Contact Attempts: Attempts to gather further details from the Sterling Fire Department have not yet been successful.
- Business Response: Onyx Corporation, which operates the quarry, has announced the closure of all its locations from Thursday through the weekend. The company plans to resume operations on Monday.
Onyx Corporation’s Role
Onyx Corporation, known for its demolition and excavation services, operates the quarry where the incident took place. The company has a history of transforming large rock formations into aggregate materials used for infrastructure projects.
About Onyx Corporation:
- Quarry Location: Onyx’s quarry on Chocksett Road has been in operation since February 2018.
- Services Provided: The company provides sand and aggregate materials for various applications, including roads, drainage systems, and retaining walls.
- Recent Announcements: In January, Onyx highlighted its capabilities in transforming rock into essential construction materials.
The Quarry Incident: What We Know
- Current Status: The quarry will remain closed until Monday, with the situation under active investigation.
- Company Statement: A representative from Onyx Corporation had no additional information at the time of contact.
What’s Next?
The incident at the Massachusetts quarry raises several questions:
- Cause of the Collapse: Investigations will determine how the excavator ended up buried and if any safety protocols were breached.
- Impact on Operations: The closure of Onyx Corporation’s locations may impact local construction and landscaping projects.
- Safety Measures: The quarry’s safety protocols will likely be reviewed to prevent future incidents.
Conclusion: Quarry Incident Highlights Safety Concerns
The situation at the Sterling quarry is a stark reminder of the risks associated with heavy excavation and demolition work. As emergency services continue their efforts, it is crucial to focus on safety and operational protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.
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