MEDARYVILLE, Ind. (AP) — Northern Indiana Public Service Co. was in violation of two safety standards when a utility worker was electrocuted in August, a union official said, citing an Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigation.

OSHA told union leaders about the alleged violations earlier this month as the agency concluded its investigation of the death of Michael Nesius, 43, of Rensselaer, said David Chlebek, United Steelworkers Local 12775 safety committee chairman.

NIPSCO had not received official OSHA notification of any violations and had no comment, NIPSCO spokesman Tom Cuddy told The Times of Munster.

Chlebek said the OSHA investigation showed Nesius was electrocuted Aug. 11 as he worked with a hydraulic tamper to pack dirt around a newly installed power pole. He said a boom holding up the pole came in contact with a live line and conducted the electricity to the truck and through a hose connected to the tamper.

The report alleged the hydraulic tool was “not designed for use” where it could come into contact with live wires, and that there was no protecting or insulating material used on the work near energized lines, the union official said.

The allegations are subject to review by OSHA supervisors. NIPSCO could face fines up to $7,000, according to information on the U.S. Department of Labor’s OSHA Web site.

Posted 11/1/2006