On Monday, Havana's Electric Company asserted that 35-year-old lineman Osmani Hernández Padroza "has everything he needs" for his recovery following a workplace accident last Friday while fixing an issue in San Miguel del Padrón. "Osmani is in great spirits and shares his longing to see his child again, immensely grateful for having all he requires," the company stated on social media after visiting him at Miguel Enríquez Hospital.
The state-run entity highlighted that the worker greeted them with a smile and "admirable strength," emphasizing that "he has the support of an institution committed to his well-being." They also expressed gratitude towards the Cuban healthcare system, the medical team, his colleagues, and the company's management for their continued support since the incident. "It's our duty to continue standing by him, as we have from the very start," the statement concluded.
This official response came after Hernández's former partner, Gretel Aparicio, alleged on social media that the family was compelled to seek public assistance to obtain bandages and medications. Aparicio noted that despite institutional promises, they had to rely on community solidarity to meet the patient’s basic needs. "He shares his hope of reuniting with his child and is immensely thankful for having all he needs," they reiterated.
In an interview with La Tijera, Osmani Hernández conveyed a message of hope from the hospital: “I have the willpower... and I am fully aware of what lies ahead. So don't worry, mom. I know at least I’ll lose my arms, but I will hold onto life.” Furthermore, the lineman expressed gratitude for the support from friends and colleagues, with his close circle clarifying that the family had not officially requested financial help, and any initiatives were independently undertaken by his ex-partner without prior consultation.
Public Outcry and Safety Concerns
On September 12, Osmani Hernández suffered an electric shock while working on Pepe Prieto Street in San Miguel del Padrón. Witnesses reported that the lineman was left hanging from the pole, convulsing and vomiting. In the absence of firefighters and emergency personnel, local residents brought him down and transported him in a private vehicle to Miguel Enríquez Hospital.
The following day, the Electric Company released preliminary details about the worker's health, confirming he came into contact with a broken conductor that caused burns on both arms, although he remained conscious. They also stated he was under specialized medical care.
The incident sparked public outrage as it was also revealed that Hernández had repeatedly requested to leave his job over the past three months, only to be denied due to the company's "staff shortages." This kept him in a high-risk position despite lacking adequate safety conditions.
Healthcare Crisis and Government Accountability
Cuba's healthcare crisis has been officially acknowledged. In July, the Minister of Public Health, José Ángel Portal Miranda, admitted to the National Assembly that only 30% of essential medications are available, highlighting shortages in medical supplies, personnel, and rising mortality rates.
While authorities claim to be investigating the accident's causes and providing institutional support to Osmani, the public continues to demand transparency, accountability, and dignified conditions for those working in hazardous environments within a failing electrical system.
FAQs about the Lineman's Accident in Havana
What caused the accident involving Osmani Hernández?
Osmani Hernández suffered an electrical accident after coming into contact with a broken conductor while working in San Miguel del Padrón.
How did the community respond to the accident?
Local residents played a crucial role by helping Osmani down from the pole and transporting him to the hospital in a private vehicle, as there were no emergency services present.
Has Osmani Hernández received institutional support?
The Electric Company has claimed that Osmani is receiving necessary institutional support, though there are reports of his family seeking public assistance for basic medical supplies.