On October 7, 2024, a workplace accident at the Petrobras oil firm in Macaé, Brazil claimed the life of Rafaela Martins de Araujo, a 27-year-old civil engineer.
Employed by MJ2 Construction, a service provider for Petrobras, Araujo was reportedly overseeing operations when a malfunctioning steamroller in the waste storage area went out of control. The heavy vehicle, unable to brake, crushed Araujo, who suffered severe head trauma and was immediately transported to the Lagomar Emergency Care Unit, where she later died from her injuries.
In a statement, Petrobras expressed condolences over the young engineer’s passing: “Petrobras has notified the appropriate agencies and will form a committee to investigate the causes of the sad event.” The company also mentioned that Petrobras and MJ2 are offering support to Araujo’s family during this challenging period.
The Forensic Medical Institute’s report cited head trauma as the primary cause of death. The investigation is being carried out by local authorities to determine if there have been any previous issues with the steamroller, which has reportedly been in use at the site for some time.
The Oil Workers Union of Northern Fluminense, or Sindipetro-NF, also extended its condolences. Débora Simoes, the union’s director, reflected on the tragedy, noting that no one expects to lose their life when going to work. She expressed her heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased. The union has started its investigation into the incident, engaging with management and workers at the Cabiúnas Terminal to collect more information on the circumstances surrounding the event.
The union added that it was still gathering more information by contacting workers at the terminal and reviewing safety protocols at the construction site. It remains unclear if the equipment had previously presented any safety concerns.
