OSHA cites companies for fall hazards

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited roofing company Aspen Contracting Inc., based in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and subcontractor J Cuellar LLC, based in West Bend, Wisconsin, for exposing employees to dangerous fall hazards at a construction site. The companies face proposed penalties totaling $147,998.

During an inspection in July 2018, OSHA says it observed J Cuellar LLC employees re-roofing a home without fall protection at a site in Fountain, Colorado, and cited it for a fall protection violation. OSHA cited Aspen Contracting Inc. for repeatedly failing to protect workers from fall hazards and for failing to conduct frequent and regular inspections of its job site.

“Fall hazards are well-known in the roofing industry, and these employers should have taken the proper steps to protect their employees,” says OSHA Area Director David Nelson.

The companies have 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s Area Director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.