OSHA cites Florida pavement company for safety violations

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Washington, has cited Pavemax Corp. for safety violations after an employee died at an Orange City, Florida, work site.

OSHA inspectors determined that a paver operator lacked proper training to use the equipment and was permitted to stand on the equipment while it was in motion, subsequently fell and was pulled under the paver.

The Holly Hill, Florida-based paving company faces $16,814 in proposed fines, including the maximum penalty under the law, for failing to provide a place of employment free from recognized hazards.

“This tragedy could have been prevented if employees were trained properly on operating equipment safely,” Buddy Underwood, OSHA Jacksonville area office acting director, says.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed 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.