A recent investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) shed light on a disconcerting pattern of safety violations by a contractor with a concerning history of workplace safety breaches dating back to 2015. The DOL inspectors found that twice within a span of just two months in 2023, employees at the construction company were exposed to life-threatening fall hazards while conducting siding and roofing work in Missouri.
Construction Company Fails to Adhere to OSHA Safety Standards
During the inspections conducted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), it was revealed that the contractor allowed workers to operate at heights exceeding 6 feet without implementing the required fall arrest systems, safety nets, guardrails, and proper ladder usage. Additionally, the company failed to provide adequate protection to employees using pneumatic nail guns against potential eye and face hazards.
As a result of these alarming violations, OSHA issued the construction company citations for two repeat and two serious violations, proposing a hefty penalty of $334,618. Over the years, OSHA has cited the company seven times for fall protection violations, underlining the severity of their disregard for employee safety.
Fatal Falls
Bill McDonald, OSHA Area Director, expressed serious concerns about the construction company’s recurring failures to adhere to federal safety standards. He highlighted that falls from elevations are the most fatal hazard in the construction industry, and the company’s ongoing neglect of employee safety must be addressed urgently to prevent potential injuries or worse.
In 2021, a distressing one in five workplace deaths occurred within the construction industry, and over one-third of these deaths were attributed to falls, slips, and trips. Alarmingly, nearly all of these incidents were falls to a lower level. The construction industry accounted for a significant 46.2 percent of all fatal falls, slips, and trips in 2021, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
OSHA initiated these inspections under its Regional Emphasis Program on Fall Hazards, emphasizing the urgent need for heightened safety measures in such high-risk work environments. To educate workers about fall hazards and appropriate safety procedures, OSHA’s stop falls website offers safety information and video presentations in both English and Spanish.
Conclusion
This investigation serves as a stern reminder to all small and midsize business owners, especially those in the construction sector, regarding the critical importance of prioritizing workplace safety. Violations of safety standards not only jeopardize the well-being and lives of employees but also result in substantial financial penalties. Compliance with safety regulations is not just a legal obligation but a moral duty for employers, ensuring a safe and secure work environment for their workforce. Investing in safety measures ultimately saves lives and protects the reputation and viability of any business.