Excavator Buried in Massachusetts Quarry Incident
Emergency response underway at Sterling quarry after excavator buried. Onyx Corporation temporarily closes locations. No immediate threat to public safety reported.
An incident at a quarry in Sterling, Massachusetts, approximately 64 kilometers west of Boston, has prompted an emergency response. On August 22, 2024, rescue teams were called to the scene where an excavator became buried under rocks and boulders.
The Sterling Fire Department, along with other agencies, swiftly responded to the situation at the quarry site off Chocksett Road. Officials have not yet confirmed whether anyone was inside the excavator at the time of the incident. The fire department has assured the public that there is no immediate safety threat and has requested people to avoid the area.
Onyx Corporation, the company operating the quarry, has announced a temporary closure of all its locations until August 26, 2024. The firm, which specializes in demolition and excavation, established this particular quarry site in February 2018, about 6.5 years ago.
Quarrying, the process of extracting stone or other materials from the earth, involves significant risks. Heavy machinery like excavators, which are used for digging and material handling, can be subject to hazards such as falling rocks and unstable ground conditions. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulates safety in U.S. quarries to mitigate these risks.
The aggregate industry, to which Onyx Corporation contributes, plays a crucial role in the U.S. economy. In January 2024, the company highlighted its role in transforming large rocks into aggregate materials essential for infrastructure projects such as roads, drainage systems, and retaining walls.
Sterling, incorporated in 1781 and covering an area of 81.8 square kilometers, has been home to this quarry operation for several years. While quarries provide vital materials for construction, they can also have environmental impacts, including noise pollution and habitat disruption. Modern quarrying techniques often employ computerized equipment and GPS technology to improve efficiency and safety.
As the situation develops, the importance of safety training for quarry workers becomes evident. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers in such operations and the ongoing need for stringent safety measures. The quarrying industry continues to balance the demand for essential construction materials with environmental considerations, including the reclamation of quarries after their productive life.
Authorities are expected to provide updates as more information becomes available about this incident at the Sterling quarry.
