Work accident claim news -
03/09/2009

Damages for Russian workers after 72 bodies found

On August 17th a horrific work accident at a Russian hydroelectric power plant claimed the lives of many workers when a surge of water from the Yenisei River engulfed its main turbine hall

Around 100 workers were on duty at the power plant on the Sayano-Shushenskaya dam in southern Siberia at the time of the river surge.

Searchers found the 72nd body on Sunday 30th August – three workers are still missing, presumed dead.

Whilst the cause of the accident has yet to be established an investigation is underway. Reports initially suggested that an explosion in a transformer, which had been under repair, destroyed three generating units and this led to the flooding in the turbine hall.

According to a BBC News report, Russian Prime Minister, Vladimir Putin, has promised relatives of the victims compensation of 1million roubles (£19,385) each. He also promised to match any company compensation payments with government funded work accident damages.