The family of a Baltimore man who died of heatstroke while collecting trash for the city’s public works agency is demanding increased transparency from local officials following his death. Ronald Silver II, a healthy 36-year-old, succumbed to heat-related illness while working, prompting his family to call for investigative hearings by the Baltimore City Council to shed light on the circumstances of his death. Silver, who was working to support his family of five, had started the job last fall and was making about $18 an hour. His death occurred on a day when temperatures in the Baltimore area reached about 100 degrees (38 Celsius) and a Code Red heat advisory was issued.
Silver’s death has sparked criticism of the Baltimore Department of Public Works, with critics pointing to longstanding problems within the agency, including an abusive culture perpetuated by supervisors and a lack of concern for basic health and safety measures. A report by the city’s inspector general earlier this summer highlighted the inadequate access to water, ice, air conditioning, and fans for agency employees, particularly those working in intense summer heat. Department of Public Works officials have declined to answer questions about the events leading up to Silver’s death, raising concerns about the lack of accountability and transparency within the agency.
In response to the findings of the inspector general’s report, agency leaders have promised to address the issue by implementing changes such as maintaining ice machines, repairing broken air conditioners in trash trucks, providing Gatorade, and offering alternative uniforms on hot days. Additionally, employees will receive mandatory heat safety training to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stroke and related illnesses. However, these efforts have been criticized as insufficient and overdue by Silver’s family attorney, who called for more substantial changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Silver family is determined to ensure that Ronald’s death serves as a catalyst for meaningful change within the Department of Public Works and beyond. As record-shattering heat waves become increasingly common worldwide, the need to prioritize the health and safety of workers, particularly those in physically demanding outdoor jobs, is more critical than ever. The family hopes that their loss will not be in vain and that Silver’s memory will lead to lasting improvements in workplace conditions and protections for all workers. By demanding increased transparency and accountability from local officials, the Silver family is advocating for a safer and more humane work environment for all employees.
During a news conference, the Silver family expressed their love and memories of Ronald, vowing to honor his legacy by ensuring that his death results in meaningful change. By sharing their story and demanding answers from city officials, they hope to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future and to ensure that no other family has to experience the pain and loss they have endured. The Silver family’s call for increased transparency and accountability is a reminder of the importance of valuing the dignity and humanity of all workers and providing them with the necessary support and protections to ensure their well-being on the job. As the community mourns the loss of Ronald Silver II, his family’s advocacy for change serves as a powerful reminder of the need for systemic improvements to protect workers from preventable tragedies.
