In a greaseproof paper processing factory, a subcontractor, who was repairing the sprinkler system, got caught in the mechanism of a large paper machine and died despite an emergency shutdown of the unit. The accident occurred when the technician was coming down the ladder of a platform overhanging the machine by 3 m. The rope connected to his safety harness got caught up in the gearing which was rotating at high speed, pulling him into the transmission shaft. A psychological unit was set up for the site’s 140 employees who were traumatised by the accident.