Construction worker electrocuted at STEM site
An individual working on the STEM construction site on campus was reportedly electrocuted shortly after 10 a.m. last Wednesday.
At least one ambulance, fire truck and several police cruisers responded to the scene, located near the corner of Forest Avenue and 27th Street, just outside Olin Hall.
Local television affiliates reported the contractor’s heart stopped and was revived by people on the scene before emergency personnel arrived.
The man was employed by C Green Contractor, Inc., one of the companies working on the STEM construction project.
Reportedly the individual suffered burns on his hands and head.
Emergency vehicles outside of Olin Hall last Wednesday morning. PHOTO BY JAKE BULLINGTON | DIGITAL EDITOR
According to Aaron Jaco, senior media strategist for Drake’s Office of University Communications, the individual was alert and awake before being taken to the hospital.
The current condition and the name of the individual has yet to be released.
Drake University was unable to comment further on the incident.
Although construction preparation began in January, Drake will officially break ground on the project at a ceremony this Saturday, Feb. 27. This building project will cost around $15 million and will add new academic programs to campus.
The building will be home to Drake’s School of Education, the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, and the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center.
This new facility is a part the $55 million STEM at Drake initiative.
This initiative will add academic programs in the fields of science, technology, education and mathematics, along with bringing the education program back within campus.
According to a press release from Drake, a second building will also be built for an additional $20 million. This project will connect Fitch Hall and Olin Hall.
Both of these projects are estimated to be completed by July 2017.