Elderly Worker Killed After Falling Into 6,000-Gallon Vat of Mineral Oil at Chemical Plant

A tragic workplace accident in New Jersey claimed the life of a 71-year-old man after he fell into a massive vat of mineral oil at a chemical plant, according to police and company officials.

The incident occurred Monday afternoon at the Bayway Chemical Plant in Linden. Authorities said the victim, a private subcontractor from Iselin, was working at the facility around 1:30 p.m. when he accidentally fell into a bulk liquid container holding approximately 6,000 gallons of mineral oil.

Investigators believe the man was on top of the enormous container when he fell inside. At the time of the accident, the vat was actively being filled with mineral oil, a highly refined petroleum-based liquid.

Emergency crews from the Bayway and Linden fire departments rushed to the scene near Park and Brunswick avenues and were able to pull the man from the container. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead. Authorities have not yet publicly released his name.

Police are continuing to investigate how the fall occurred, and New Jersey Occupational Safety and Health Administration has also launched an investigation into the incident.

The plant is operated by Infineum, which described the facility as a lubricant additive production site. In a statement, the company said it is committed to workplace safety but acknowledged the devastating outcome.

“At Infineum, one of our goals is to maintain a safe workplace and ensure hazards are eliminated or mitigated,” the company said. “Sadly, there are times when something happens, and unfortunately, that is the case today. Our hearts are heavy with the news of the loss of life at our facility.”

The company added that it extends its deepest sympathies to the victim’s family and friends and confirmed it is fully cooperating with all investigating agencies while also conducting its own internal review.