OSHA and Workplace Safety

By Alissa Atkins

On October 19, 2010 the United Stated Department of Labor issued a regional news release concerning two Kansas City area employers after a worker fell to his death through a roof opening. OSHA found that the employers failed to protect and train the workers from fall hazards. The deceased worker fell 40 feet to his death through a roof opening, after which OSHA proposed $150,000.00 in penalties against one employer working on the site and $145,000.00 in penalties against the other employer.

OSHA’s website states that failure to provide fall protection is one of the ten most frequently cited safety problems. OSHA requires training on fall protection specifically designed to “enable each employee to recognize the hazards of falling.” 29 CFR 126.503(a)(1). They also require training on the correct procedures for erecting, maintaining, disassembling and inspecting fall protection systems, and the use and operation of guardrail systems and personal fall arrest systems including safety nets. Finally, OSHA has a public policy of protecting workers who report safety and health concerns, and accordingly prohibits the firing or retaliation of workers who voice safety or health issues to OSHA.

If you have questions or comments, please reply to this blog post or contact your David & Rosetti attorney at 404-446-4488 or by visiting our website at www.davidandrosetti.com. Nothing contained in this blog should be construed as legal advice or opinion on specific facts. For editorial comments or suggestions, please contact David W. Willis at (404) 446-4491 or at david.willis@davidandrosetti.com.