OSHA cites Parkersburg, Pa., construction company for exposing workers to fall hazards

The US Department of Labor (DOL) lists falls as one of the leading causes of traumatic occupational death, accounting for eight percent of all occupational fatalities from trauma. Any time a worker is at a height of four feet or more, the worker is at risk and needs to be protected. Identifying fall hazards and deciding how best to protect workers is the first step in reducing or eliminating fall hazards.

OSHA Release: OSHA has cited White Horse Construction of Parkersburg with two alleged willful violations for exposing workers to fall hazards on a Limerick, Pa., jobsite. Penalties total $56,000.

OSHA initiated its inspection on Jan. 28 as part of its regional emphasis program focused on fall hazards at construction sites. Investigators observed employees working without adequate fall protection on platforms as high as 20 feet. The company has been cited for failing to secure a platform and provide fall protection to employees engaged in work on a roof and on ladder jack scaffolds.

"Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry," said Jean Kulp, director of OSHA's Allentown Area Office. "It is vital that the company eliminate these hazards to ensure the safety of its employees."

Detailed information on scaffold hazards and safe work practices, including an interactive e-Tool, is available online at http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/scaffolding/index.html. Detailed information about fall hazards and safeguards is also available on OSHA's website at http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/fallprotection/construction.html.

Source:
osha.gov