Incident Overview
A lineman was fatally injured after walking into the propeller arc of an operating right engine. The incident occurred following the disconnection of a ground power unit (GPU) cable from the right engine nacelle.
Sequence of Events
The lineman initially approached the nacelle from the rear. After disconnecting the GPU cable, he walked forward into the propeller arc. The FBO's normal procedure for GPU disconnect operations on this aircraft directed personnel to approach and depart the nacelle area from the rear.
Previous Experience
The pilot reported that the lineman had performed GPU disconnect procedures on this aircraft without any problem on several previous occasions.
Toxicology Results
Toxicological analysis was performed on blood and urine samples from the lineman. A level of greater than 50 ng/mL carboxy THC was reported in the urine sample. The report noted that levels greater than 50 ng/mL carboxy THC are "typically associated with very recent use" (of marijuana). Additionally, cocaine and marijuana metabolites were detected in the blood sample.
Investigation Notes
The investigation did not provide a probable cause statement. The report described the sequence of events and the toxicology findings without attributing causal factors.