OSHA cites Ohio contractor after employee injury

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Hiebert Bros Construction LLC for exposing employees to fall hazards after a worker was injured from a 26-foot fall at a construction worksite in Gainesville, Florida. The company faces penalties of $56,828.

OSHA inspectors determined that the Berlin Heights, Ohio-based construction company failed to ensure that workers used fall protection systems while engaged in roofing activities, train employees on fall protection and notify OSHA within 24 hours of the employee’s hospitalization, as required. OSHA initiated the inspection in conjunction with the agency’s Regional Emphasis Program for Falls in Construction.

“Falls continue to be the leading cause of fatalities in construction,” says OSHA Jacksonville Area Director Michelle Gonzalez in a news release. “Providing workers with fall protection is not optional. It is required by law to prevent worker injuries and fatalities.”

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.