Feds Cite Postal Service in Death of Massachusetts Carrier

Federal workplace safety officials have cited the U.S. Postal Service in the July death of a mail carrier who collapsed while walking his route on a day that the heat index went over 100 degrees.

WCVB-TV reports the Occupational Safety and Health Administration concluded the postal service had not implemented an adequate heat stress management program to help mail carriers identify, prevent and report symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

The postal service says it has since put in place a new heat stress program, which includes posters, articles and other training.

Forty-five-year-old James Baldassarre of Haverhill had been walking his route in Medford on July 5 for about five hours and was carrying a bag that could weigh up to 35 pounds. He died the following day of heat stroke.