In a concerning development, federal workplace safety inspectors have once again discovered serious safety violations by a roofing contractor based in Pennsylvania. This time, the violations occurred while employees were working on the roof of a commercial building. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) observed employees working at alarming heights of up to 27 feet in February 2023 without adequate fall protection, a clear violation of federal workplace safety regulations.
Roofing Contractor Exposes Employees to Numerous Safety Hazards
The violations didn’t end there; inspectors also found that the company had failed to provide its employees with effective training on fall hazards and allowed them to work without essential eye and face protection when there were potential risks of eye or face injuries. As a result of these serious safety lapses, OSHA has cited the roofing contractor, for two willful violations, two serious violations, and one other-than-serious violation, proposing a substantial penalty of $328,143.
OSHA’s Area Director in Pennsylvania, Mary Reynolds, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “OSHA will not tolerate this company’s continued failure to protect its employees against potentially deadly and disabling hazards. Falls are the leading cause of death in construction work, and employers are legally required to plan ahead, provide workers with effective tools and training, and conduct frequent inspections to ensure jobs are done safely.”
This is not the first time the roofing contractor, has faced such serious safety violations. In five previous inspections of the company’s worksites, OSHA has proposed a total of $178,649 in penalties for repeated failures to comply with federal requirements for fall protection.
Business owners, especially those in the construction industry, must take heed of this case as it underscores the critical importance of workplace safety and compliance with OSHA regulations. Failure to provide adequate fall protection measures not only puts employees at risk of severe injury or death but also leads to substantial financial penalties and damage to a company’s reputation.
What Happens Next
The roofing contractor now has 15 business days from the receipt of its citations and penalties to decide whether to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
To ensure the safety of employees and compliance with OSHA standards, employers are encouraged to visit OSHA’s website, which offers valuable information on developing workplace safety and health programs applicable to all industries. Additionally, OSHA provides free work-specific tools and compliance assistance resources. Business owners can reach out to the agency for guidance on ensuring a safe working environment and complying with OSHA standards.
Conclusion
The case of the roofing contractor serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of neglecting workplace safety and failing to comply with federal regulations. Business owners should prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees and take proactive measures to address and mitigate potential hazards. Compliance with OSHA standards is not only a legal obligation but also an ethical responsibility to protect the workforce from harm.