Boston company cited for multiple violations after two die in trench collapse
Two employees died when the 12-foot-deep trench in which they were working collapsed, breaking a nearby fire hydrant supply line and filling the trench with water. OSHA inspectors found that Atlantic Drain Service Co. Inc. and its owner, Kevin Otto, failed to provide basic safeguards to prevent a trench collapse and did not train employees to recognize and avoid cave-in hazards. Other violations included failing to: provide a ladder so employees could exit the trench at any time; support other structures near the trench that posed overhead hazards; and supply hardhats and eye protection. The Boston-based company was cited for 18 safety violations and proposed $1,475,813 in fines. OSHA cited Atlantic Drain trenching worksites for similar hazards in 2007 and 2012. Read the news release for more information.
Washington roofer cited for repeatedly exposing workers to fall hazards
America 1st Roofing & Builders Inc. was cited for multiple violations after four separate safety inspections found workers exposed to falls of more than 30 feet. The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries cited the Mukilteo, Wash., roofing company for 21 violations that include failing to require fall protection equipment, develop a safety program and have someone trained in first-aid at the worksite. The company has been cited for fall protection violations multiple times in the last three years. For more information, read the news release.
Georgia cleaning service cited for slip hazards that led to worker injury
OSHA conducted an inspection of Chestatee Regional Hospital in Dahlonega, Ga., after learning that a worker broke her hip when she slipped and fell while cleaning a room. The worker's employer, cleaning contractor Healthcare Services Group Inc., was cited for eight violations of workplace safety and health standards. Violations included not providing dry standing places or mats for workers cleaning and waxing floors, and not providing personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazardous chemicals. For more information, read the citations.
Construction company cited for exposing workers to potentially fatal falls at two Washington, D.C., worksites
OSHA cited Master Carpentry Inc. after inspectors observed the company’s workers exposed to fall hazards at two construction sites in Washington, D.C. In the first incident, two workers on the roof of a large residential structure were seen wearing personal fall arrest equipment that was not tied off to secure anchor points. In a second incident six days later, a worker was seen standing on the flat roof of a three-story row house with no fall protection. Master has been cited for fall hazards multiple times in the past five years.