Tesla Cited for Workplace Safety Violations Following Worker Fatality

Federal agencies have determined that Tesla violated workplace safety regulations at its manufacturing facility in Austin, Texas, where an electrician named Victor Gomez Sr. was tragically electrocuted while inspecting electrical panels. The U.S. Department of Labor verified the citations, confirming that the investigation—conducted by OSHA—was concluded in late January, though specific details of the safety failures and any resulting penalties were not disclosed.

The incident, which has drawn significant public and political attention, occurred on August 1 and led to a wrongful death lawsuit against Tesla by the victim's family. The suit contends that a panel, meant to be inactive, was improperly energized, ultimately leading to Gomez’s fatal accident. Meanwhile, U.S. Representative Greg Casar has called for the prompt release of the full investigation findings, fearing that withholding information might suggest that Tesla is receiving preferential treatment.

The Austin facility, a vast 10-million square-foot complex that manufactures Tesla's Model Y vehicles and Cybertrucks, has previously recorded other workplace safety violations. OSHA records indicate that the company was fined approximately $7,000 for two separate chemical hazard violations in the past year, and similar complaints have been lodged regarding the treatment of subcontractor workers during the construction of the plant.