A contractor was injured Tuesday after falling roughly 20 to 30 feet into an underground tank at a Rockwall wastewater treatment plant, authorities said.
Rockwall Fire Department crews were called just after 10:40 a.m. to the 4900 block of Horizon Road after the man was injured while performing maintenance at the North Texas Municipal Water District’s Buffalo Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant.
According to officials, the contractor fell while climbing down a ladder into the empty tank, which was about 25 feet below ground.
Because of the tank’s depth and the technical demands of the rescue, Rockwall Fire requested assistance from Dallas Fire-Rescue’s Urban Search and Rescue team, which arrived about half an hour later.
Crews reached the man and provided medical care while working to safely remove him. Dallas Fire-Rescue used ropes and a fire truck ladder to bring him to the surface.
The man was conscious when he was extricated, officials said. He was initially transported by ambulance before being flown by medical helicopter to a local hospital.
His name and current condition have not been released. Officials said his injuries were not considered life-threatening.
The North Texas Municipal Water District is assisting emergency responders and the contractor’s company as the circumstances surrounding the fall are investigated.
Officials said there was no danger to the public.
Provided by Dallas Express
