Bulgarian cross-border worker dies in workplace accident in Cugnasco (cross-border guide)

Context

TL;DR

• Operaio bulgaro muore in incidente forestale a Cugnasco
• Due alberi cadono sull'operaio durante lavori forestali
• Squadre di soccorso confermano decesso sul posto
• Indagini in corso per determinare cause dell'incidente

Key facts

• Cosa: Operaio colpito da due alberi caduti durante lavori forestali
• Quando: Oggi, poco prima delle 14:00
• Dove: Cugnasco, sopra Ditto, nelle montagne del Locarnese
• Chi: Operaio bulgaro di 50 anni, residente nella regione
• Importo: Nessun importo specificato
• Scadenza: Indagini in corso nei prossimi giorni
• Contatti emergenza: 117 per emergenze, 0848 25 55 55 per polizia cantonale Locarno
• Supporto psicologico: Care Team della polizia cantonale attiva 24/7

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.

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Operational details

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.

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Key points

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 | [email protected] | | SUVA (Accident Insurance) | 041 411 11 11 | [email protected] | | Cantonal Police Care Team | Not yet specified | - |

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