Bulgarian cross-border worker dies in workplace accident in Cugnasco

Contesto

Just before 2:00 PM today, a workplace accident was reported to the Common Alarm Center (CECAL) in Cugnasco, in the mountains above Ditto. According to the reconstruction provided by the cantonal police, a 50-year-old worker, a Bulgarian citizen residing in the region, was carrying out forestry work. For reasons that will be determined during the investigation, the man was first struck by a falling tree, followed by a second one. On-site, officers from the cantonal police, the Locarno fire brigade, the Swiss Alpine Rescue (SAS), and REGA arrived. Despite attempts at resuscitation, rescuers confirmed the man’s death due to the injuries sustained. The authorities responded immediately: the cantonal police launched an investigation to determine the exact causes of the accident, while the fire brigade ensured the safety of the surrounding area. At the same time, the Care Team—the cantonal police’s psychological support service—was called in to assist colleagues and the man’s family. The Care Team operates in emergency situations to provide immediate support to those directly or indirectly involved in traumatic events, such as fatal workplace accidents. ## Procedure in case of a workplace accident in Ticino > “In emergency situations like this, the swift response of local authorities is crucial. The cantonal police, in coordination with the fire brigade and rescuers, ensure an immediate response for the safety of individuals and the preservation of evidence.” The investigation will continue in the coming days to establish the precise dynamics of the incident. The cantonal police urge anyone present at the scene or with useful information to come forward by contacting the Operations Center at 117 or the Locarno cantonal police at 0848 25 55 55. ### The role of the Care Te...

Dettagli operativi

The incident that occurred in Cugnasco raises significant issues for cross-border workers employed in Ticino, particularly in high-risk sectors such as construction, forestry, and transportation. According to data from the cantonal police, forestry and agricultural activities represent one of the categories with an above-average injury rate, especially in mountainous areas like the Locarnese region. For cross-border workers, who already face complex cross-border working conditions, an incident like this calls for a reflection on safety and prevention. ### Analysis of risk dynamics for cross-border workers Forestry and agricultural work in Ticino is governed by strict occupational safety regulations. However, weather conditions, the terrain, and the need to meet work deadlines can heighten the risk of accidents, particularly for foreign workers who may not be fully aware of local safety procedures. ### Comparison with the previous situation Before the authorities intervened, the area affected by the incident was isolated and inaccessible to non-essential personnel. Prompt reporting to the CECAL (Cantonal Emergency Coordination Centre) enabled a rapid response from law enforcement and rescue teams, preventing further risks to the public. However, the lack of safety measures such as early warning systems or marked routes for isolated workers remains a critical issue in some areas of the canton. ### Support for families and colleagues 📊 The death of a cross-border worker in a workplace accident has a profound impact not only on the family but also on colleagues and the entire workforce. The cantonal police Care Team plays a key role in providing immediate psychological support, but prevention remains the fundamental element. The cantonal police have recently launched aw...

Punti chiave

In the event of a workplace accident in Ticino, the procedure to follow is clear and must be respected to ensure the safety of all involved. Below are the steps to take, based on the guidelines from the cantonal police and local emergency services: ### 1. Immediate reporting of the accident - Call 117 to report the emergency to the Common Emergency Call Centre (CECAL). - Provide precise information about the location of the accident, the type of event, and the number of people involved. ### 2. Awaiting emergency services without moving the victim - Do not attempt to treat the injured person unless you are trained in first aid. - Stay calm and ensure the safety of the surrounding area to prevent further risks. ### 3. Cooperation with authorities - Provide any witness statements or useful details to law enforcement. - Do not leave the area until the authorities arrive, unless absolutely necessary. ### 4. Psychological support for family members and colleagues - In the event of a fatal accident, contact the cantonal police’s Care Team to request psychological support. - The team intervenes at the request of authorities or family members to provide immediate assistance. ### 5. Reporting to the employer and relevant authorities - Inform your employer of the accident without delay. - Report the incident to SUVA (Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund) to initiate the insurance process. ### Useful contacts for reporting an accident | Authority | Phone Number | Email/Web | |-----------|---------------|-----------| | Emergency services (117) | 117 | - | | Cantonal Police, Locarno | 0848 25 55 55 | polizia@polca.ti.ch | | SUVA (Accident Insurance) | 041 411 11 11 | info@suva.ch | | Cantonal Police Care Team | Not yet specified | - | ### What to do if you witness an acciden...

Punti chiave

[{"q":"What are the emergency numbers to call in case of a workplace accident in Ticino?","a":"In case of an emergency, you must dial 117 to activate the Cantonal Emergency Coordination Centre (CECAL). To contact the Locarno Cantonal Police directly, you can call 0848 25 55 55. These numbers are available 24/7 and ensure an immediate response from the competent authorities."},{"q":"What happens after a fatal workplace accident in Ticino?","a":"Following a fatal workplace accident, the Cantonal Police launch an investigation to determine the causes of the incident. Simultaneously, the Care Team is activated to provide psychological support to family members, colleagues, and witnesses. The company involved must report the incident to SUVA to initiate the insurance process and cooperate with the authorities during the inquiry."},{"q":"How can I report unsafe working conditions in Ticino?","a":"Unsafe working conditions can be reported directly to the Cantonal Police or SUVA. You can contact the relevant Cantonal Police unit by phone or email, or use the official channels provided by the Canton of Ticino to report any irregularities. Prompt reporting is crucial to prevent accidents."},{"q":"Which sectors in Ticino are most at risk of workplace accidents?","a":"The sectors most exposed to serious accidents in Ticino include forestry, construction, transport, and agriculture. These industries require particular attention to safety regulations and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). The Cantonal Police and SUVA run awareness campaigns to reduce risks in these fields."},{"q":"Where can I find safety training courses for foreign workers in Ticino?","a":"Safety training courses for foreign workers in Ticino are organised by SUVA and the Cantonal Police. You can check...

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