Baltimore worker's death highlights safety training concerns

A new report from Baltimore's Office of the Inspector General (OIG) offers fresh insights into the death of Ronald Silver II, a Department of Public Works (DPW) employee who died last summer while working. Silver had called in sick the day before his death and was suffering from heat-related fatigue at the time. The report states that on July 31, 2024, the day before his death, temperatures reached 95 degrees. Silver's crew began their route late, working more during the hottest part of the day. On August 1, after feeling ill, Silver was advised by his supervisor to stay home and hydrate. He returned to work on August 2, when temperatures were close to 100 degrees. That afternoon, he collapsed and was later pronounced dead. According to the investigation, Silver experienced exhaustion and blurred vision while working. He initially hesitated to speak up about his condition due to fear of being reported by his supervisor. Even as he struggled, a resident observed Silver seeking help and described how a driver suggested he might be faking his illness. The report also highlights issues with DPW's pay structure, which incentivizes workers to complete routes quickly. This could push employees to prioritize speed over safety. Concerns have been raised about the lack of proper training for DPW workers regarding heat safety. Several employees reported not knowing the guidelines for mandatory breaks or how to respond when others showed signs of heat illness. DPW Director Khalil Zaied acknowledged the tragedy of Silver's death and emphasized the need for changes within the agency. He noted ongoing training efforts aimed at preventing heat-related illnesses among workers. Also, the agency plans to implement a formal Heat Illness Prevention Plan soon. City Council members praised Zaied's commitment to improving conditions for sanitation workers, highlighting his efforts to negotiate better wages.