A machine operator at a textile plant died of asphyxia when his torso was compressed in an automated circular knitting machine. Inside the machine a turntable, rotating at 24 revolutions per minute, supported a roller that collected fabric. Safety gates between support columns protected employees from contacting the rotating turntable. However, the company had no written safety instructions for employees using the machines. When a machine malfunctioned, the victim shut it off and opened a safety gate to untangle fabric. Two co-workers helped him. He remained inside the machine while they returned to their work areas. When they later heard his scream, […]