The official Xinhua News Agency said one officer was accused of causing the death of the 47-year-old worker, Zhou Xiuyun. Two others were arrested for allegedly abusing their power.
Xinhua said more than 10 workers were stopped by guards and police on December 13 when they attempted to enter the construction site in northern Shanxi province to be paid. It said a brawl ensued in which police also broke Zhou's husband's ribs.
A video of Zhou's struggle with police has spread widely in China, with one segment showing a police officer appearing to stand on her hair as she lay unconscious on the ground. Zhou's son said the construction boss had delayed payment of the workers' wages, Xinhua reported.