A construction worker who was helping to erect scaffolding for the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas has died. As reported by the Las Vegas Metro Police Department, the man suffered a “major laceration to the neck” while working at the Bellagio Fountains on Saturday.
The unnamed worker was helping to construct MGM Resorts International’s grandstand for VIP race viewing at the Bellagio fountains. He was rushed to hospital where he later died. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has confirmed that it will investigate the tragic death.
a carpenter trade union member had warned about the safety of the construction sites
Only last week, VegasSlotsOnline News reported that a carpenter trade union member had warned about the safety of the construction sites. Joe Dotson, who claimed to be Data Engineering Lead for the Southwest Mountain States Carpenters, said F1 was trying to avoid paying a high price for construction in Las Vegas by using cheap out-of-state laborers.
Commenting on social media, Dotson said that most of those hired by F1 don’t have certain safety certifications held by other more local companies, such as cards issued by the OSHA. He went on to allege that the workers were receiving just $16 per hour to construct the grandstands, which cost around $2,500 each.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is due to go ahead on November 19 as planned. It will feature a 3.8-mile course that winds through downtown Sin City.