Construction contractor cited over $170,000 as OSHA continues enforcement

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited a Georgia-based construction contractor for exposing employees to hazards after a fatal fall at a highway construction project in Atlanta. The company faces up to $170,020 in penalties. 

OSHA initiated the inspection after an employee fell to his death while installing metal decking on a bridge ramp. The agency cited the contractor for failing to ensure employees used a required horizontal lifeline system and fall protection.

OSHA also cited the contractor for failing to:

• Secure metal decking prior to allowing employees to use it as a walking surface,
• Conduct fall protection training, and
• Perform regular job site inspections to ensure the use of all applicable safety measures.

Falls are a leading cause of fatalities in construction. Allowing employees to work at heights without proper fall protection increases the risk of serious or fatal injuries. OSHA performed its inspection as part of the Regional Emphasis Program on Falls in Construction.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations to either comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.