ANDERSON COUNTY, South Carolina — A 65-year-old man died after being electrocuted at an equipment supplier facility on Aug. 7.
WSPA reported that the man was working on a HVAC unit at the facility when he was shocked by a live wire. Emergency responders found the man unconscious on a scissor lift. He received treatment, but died from his injuries, according to the news report. His death was ruled accidental.
Safe Industries released a statement on its Facebook page saying, "We are Safe Industries — and today, part of our family is hurting. We lost someone truly special, and we’re leaning on each other and asking for your prayers for their loved ones and ours."
The accident reinforces how electrical safety is critical for HVAC contractors because technicians routinely work around high-voltage equipment, energized circuits, capacitors, disconnects, and other electrical hazards. A single mistake can result in serious injury or death, making proper lockout/tagout procedures, verification that equipment is de-energized, appropriate personal protective equipment, and ongoing electrical-safety training essential parts of HVAC operations.
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), which compiles U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and OSHA data, there are about 150 workplace electrical fatalities per year in the U.S. — a number that tends to remain consistent year-over-year, the organization notes.
According to the most recent data compiled this year based on 2011-2024 data, 15 occupations accounted for almost 75% of workplace electrical fatalities. HVAC is listed in the Top 10 occupations:
- Electricians (243 fatalities);
- Construction laborers (157 fatalities);
- Nonconstruction laborers (153 fatalities);
- Electrical power installers and repairers (151);
- Tree trimming occupations (113);
- Roofers, roof repairers (58);
- Heavy truck drivers (51);
- HVACR mechanics (49);
- Electrician apprentices (47); and
- Telecomm line installers and repairers (37).
HVACR contractors have a responsibility to establish clear safety procedures and ensure technicians have the training and tools needed to work safely. As HVAC systems become more sophisticated and technicians encounter increasingly complex electrical and controls systems, maintaining strong electrical-safety practices remains essential to protecting workers and keeping jobsites compliant and productive.
