A Sylvania woman was killed on the job in a forklift accident early Tuesday morning at Network Logistic Solutions, Inc. in Rincon.

Karen Nasworthy, 43, was driving the forklift on a loading dock when the forklift flipped on its side and pinned Nasworthy under it.

Deputies arrived around 6 a.m. after emergency medical personnel. She was taken to Effingham Hospital where she was pronounced dead in the emergency room.

According to Jim Scheidel, president of Network Logistic Solutions, Inc., Nasworthy was hired by the company in October 2006. She worked as a forklift operator, primarily loading paper goods.

Liz Freeman, acting director at the Savannah office of Occupational Safety and Health Administration, said her office is investigating the incident.

Investigations can take up to six months and until it is complete OSHA will not release details of the matter.

“We release very limited information,” she said.

Robert Triplett, an OSHA investigator, said that with a fatality, investigators have to interview everyone involved in the incident and speak to outside sources to find out how the accident could have been avoided.

“It can take some time,” he noted.

On Wednesday Network Logistic Solutions, Inc. flew the American flag at half-mast in Nasworthy’s honor. Scheidel released the following statement on Wednesday afternoon:

“Tuesday morning, July 10th, we experienced an unfortunate accident within our warehouse facility resulting in the tragic death of our associate Karen Nasworthy. The details of the accident are currently under investigation. 

“We will take all necessary steps to acquire the facts surrounding the incident.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with Karen’s family and co-workers. We extend our sympathies to all those affected.”