Fatal accident while clearing snow: community worker died in Murau

Fatal accident while clearing snow: community worker died in Murau

On December 25, 2025, a tragic accident occurred during snow clearing work in St. Georgen am Kreischberg, Murau district. A 54-year-old municipal employee had a fatal accident while working with a clearing vehicle, the so-called “Citymaster”. The incident happened just before 7:00 a.m., just after an overnight snowfall.

As the Styria State Police Department reports, the vehicle skidded due to the slippery road surface and initially stopped on the edge of the road. The man then called a work colleague for help and tried to get the vehicle moving again. However, the “Citymaster” slipped again, broke through a wooden fence and fell about 40 meters over an embankment. The vehicle rolled over several times, causing the 54-year-old to be thrown out of the safety cabin and crushed by it. An emergency doctor diagnosed the man's death at the scene of the accident.

Aftermath and support

The tragic circumstances of the incident not only affected the immediate circle of work colleagues, but also the victim's relatives. A crisis intervention team has been set up to look after those affected and to support them during this difficult time. It is important to take into account the psychological consequences for employees in such accidents, especially in high-risk jobs such as winter service.

The need for winter services to keep traffic routes safe is undisputed, but it also entails significant risks. Workers are often exposed to extreme conditions such as low temperatures, ice and limited visibility. These factors increase the risk of accidents during work, which often takes place in the dark. To ensure safety, clear guidelines for handling the vehicles and materials used are necessary. The safe handling of machines, as set out in DGUV rule 114-016 “Road operation, road maintenance”, must not be neglected.

Precautionary measures in winter service

Given the dangers associated with winter road maintenance, it is particularly important for those responsible to ensure that employees are rested and focused. Regular breaks and compliance with rest periods are essential for safety. In addition, employees must be visible, which is why wearing high-visibility clothing of the required protection class is mandatory.

When working with spreading agents such as brine or road salt, special precautionary measures are necessary to prevent health risks. The use of protective gloves and, if necessary, safety glasses and respirators is strongly recommended. Supervisors should provide their employees with comprehensive training in the safe handling of hazardous substances and ensure the use of appropriate protective equipment.

In view of the tragic incident, security measures in the community also need to be reviewed to ensure that such accidents can be avoided in the future. The safety of winter service employees has the highest priority.

Further information on the safety regulations for winter service can be found on the website of Top one to find. Provides details about the events in St. Georgen am Kreischberg Fireworld and SN.