D5 engineer earns Employee Safety Life Saver Award

By Cody Beers

Engineer Brian Martin was working as the chief inspector on a pavement improvement project on US Highway 14/16/20 west of Greybull.

It was June 23, 2022, at about 7 p.m.

A laborer with McGarvin-Moberly Construction Co., of Worland, tripped and fell in front of the paver, out of sight of the contractor’s paver operator, the screed operator on the back of the paver, and the other laborer on the opposite side of the paver.

Thankfully, Martin saw the laborer fall down, and he heard the laborer’s call for help as the paver’s front left wheel began rolling over the worker. Martin’s yells and signals caught the attention of the paver operator. Though confused by Martin for a few seconds, the paving operator could tell that something was wrong and stopped the paver. Martin told the paving operator to back up the paver about 2 feet, and Martin and the workers were able to free the laborer’s leg from underneath the wheel.

An ambulance was dispatched, first aid was given according to the instructions of the dispatch radio operator. The dispatcher told Martin and the McGarvin workers to keep the injured worker still, avoid placing ice on the worker’s leg and treat for shock. Martin communicated with the traffic control subcontractor and traffic was held until the ambulance arrived. The contractor’s employee was transported to the Cody hospital with a severe crush injury to his right foot and leg below his knee.

“We are proud of Brian Martin and the hundreds of safe- ty-minded workers like him at WYDOT,” said WYDOT Director Darin Westby. “It’s my honor as WYDOT Director to present Brian Martin of Lander with the Employee Safety Life Saver Award.”

Martin received his Life Saver Award on June 8 in Cody from Westby and WYDOT Transportation Commissioner Micheal Baker of Thermopolis.

McGarvin-Moberly Safety Officer Mike Lass expressed his appreciation for Martin’s “commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment for himself and our employees.”

“His attention to detail, awareness of potential hazards, and willingness to speak up when necessary have helped to prevent a substantial serious injury,” Lass added. “Martin’s dedication to safety is a reflection of his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Thank you again for all that has been done to keep others safe in the workplace. Martin’s contribution is invaluable, and we are grateful for his continued efforts.”