Most construction companies operating in Fort Lauderdale and the rest of the state understand that both state and federal agencies have promulgated safety regulations that must be followed on all job sites.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently cited a Tampa contractor for various violations of the agency’s regulations.
A review of the alleged violations and the penalties contained in the citation provides a helpful example of how OSHA views violations of its regulations.
Since 2019, OSHA has completed 11 inspections of the contractor under investigation. The agency identified numerous violations, many of which are related to the lack of fall protection for workers.
The allegations
In March 2020, a 53-year-old worker fell to his death from a 10-foot elevation on a Tampa residence. OSHA has alleged that the fall was the result of the company ignoring warnings about the lack of fall protection. Federal law and OSHA regulations require fall protection in all situations where an employee is working more than 6 feet above the next level.
On September 24, 2022, OSHA inspectors observed employees of the contractor working without fall protection when they were on a 15-foot high residential roof.
Employees were also observed using pneumatic nail guns, hammers and portable circular saws without the required eye protection. OSHA also learned that the company has still not adequately trained its employees in fall safety.
OSHA’s response
The regional office director for OSHA accused the company of being aware of various safety regulations and preventative measures but not caring about the welfare of its workers. OSHA has proposed penalties for the violations totaling $464,079. The company has 60 days to respond to the citation.
It’s important to remember that construction companies have the right to a defense against OSHA allegations and other regulatory actions.
