Last year, a Massachusetts construction accident injured four workers when a ladder jack scaffold gave way. Following the accident in August, 2009, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigated and discovered that the contractor had violated safety regulations. As a result, OSHA has proposed almost $55,000 in fines.
According to authorities from OSHA, the ladder jack scaffold bore too much weight and was beyond capacity. The workers also lacked protective head and eye gear, as well as training on scaffolding and fall protection. In addition, misused, damaged or inadequate extension ladders had created fall hazards.
OSHA cites employers when their unsafe work environment creates a high risk of death or injury due to lack of training or safety precautions. The company has fifteen business days from receipt of the citations to comply, contest the findings, or take part in an informal conference with OSHA’s area director.
Source: OSHA fines Legacy Builders 15 violations after Boston construction accident, NewYorkInjuryNews.com, February 2, 2010
Have you been injured on a construction site? Contact a Boston construction accident attorney to discuss your legal options.