Small and midsize business owners take note of a recent case involving a contractor that highlights the importance of adhering to federal safety regulations. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited a construction business for exposing workers to significant fall dangers and other hazards at a work site in March 2023.
Employer Fails to Adhere to Safety and Fall Hazards
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for businesses, regardless of their size, to prioritize the safety of their employees. The OSHA investigation was initiated after inspectors observed the construction business employees engaged in roofing work on a two-story home at heights of up to 23 feet, all without the necessary fall protection systems in place.
In addition to the fall hazards, OSHA’s inspection uncovered several other serious safety violations. The company allowed employees to ride in cargo vans without seat belts, placing them at risk of struck-by hazards. Furthermore, the firm failed to protect workers from potential head impact injuries and permitted the unsafe use of ladders.
The Consequences
OSHA cited the construction business for one willful and three serious violations, imposing proposed penalties totaling $77,684. OSHA Area Director Lisa Levy in New Jersey, emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, “Our investigation found the construction business jeopardizing the safety of its workers by failing to provide required life-saving fall protection. Falls remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities in the construction industry, making it imperative that employers comply with federal safety laws before a worker suffers potentially debilitating injuries or worse.”
The construction business is a general residential construction company that offers various services, including siding, roofing, chimney, gutter, and masonry work. In response to the citations and penalties, the company has 15 business days to decide whether to comply with the findings, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the results before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Conclusion
This case is a cautionary tale for business owners of all sizes. It underscores the significance of adhering to federal safety regulations and ensuring the safety of your employees. Neglecting safety protocols not only poses a significant risk to your workers but can also result in substantial financial penalties and potential legal repercussions.
Business owners should view this case as a reminder to prioritize employee safety, implement proper safety measures, and foster a work environment that protects the well-being of their workforce. Compliance with federal safety laws is not just a legal obligation but a fundamental ethical responsibility.