A 32-year-old masonry worker died Thursday after falling 40 feet from scaffolding at the U-M Museum of Art construction site.
The unidentified worker fell just before 3 p.m. and was pronounced dead a short time later at U-M Hospital.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident and loss of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and co-workers,” said Marina Roelofs, executive director for architecture engineering and construction at the University.
“Worker safety is one of our highest priorities,” Roelofs said. “Work has been suspended at the construction site and that will allow for unimpeded access to the entire site for a comprehensive review.”
The worker was employed by a masonry company hired by Skanska, an international company that is serving as construction manager for museum project.
The Department of Public Safety and the University Occupational Safety and Environmental Health determined the death to be accidental. The Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration also will conduct an investigation.
