I read an article where a worker was killed while constructing the Chelsea Piers Sports Complex in Stamford, Connecticut. The employee fell 35 feet while installing a metal roof. Upon investigation, it was noted that the fall protection was inadequate and ineffective. It was further noted that “This employer was well aware that these workers were exposed to falls but did not take steps to eliminate a significant hazard. A combination of proper fall protection and effective training could have prevented this needless loss of life”. American Building, LLC was fined $50,000 by OSHA for this incident.
$50,000?????? Really?????? What about criminal prosecution for management at American Building, LLC???? If American Building, LLC was well aware that these workers were exposed to this hazard and did not take steps to eliminate the hazard, somebody should be going to JAIL – not a $50,000 fine!
The killed worker was wearing his safety harness, but was not tethered to an anchor point. Another worker on the job site was tethered to an anchor point, but his lanyard was too long – if he fell, he would have hit the ground before his fall protection did any good. Why did American Building, LLC supply safety harnesses that would not work? Why did the American Building Supply, LLC not train these employees on proper tethering to a secure anchor point? Did American Building Supply, LLC just go through the motions to satisfy the APPEARANCE OF SAFETY to OSHA?
Companies and negligent management need to be held personally liable for situations like this one. It is unacceptable that this worker was killed on the job because there was not proper fall protection or effective training. We have a responsibility to provide a safe workplace. It is unacceptable for any worker to be injured on the job, let alone killed!
In my opinion, it’s time for OSHA to get real about protecting workers in America. I am not advocating bureaucracy and a creation of additional rules and regulations. I am not advocating increased inspections. I support a responsibility by management to ensure that safety is a priority. Make management personally liable and subject to jail time for gross negligence. Management at companies, like American Building, LLC, would act differently if they personally faced jail time. That’s how OSHA can get real about protecting workers in America.
I am going to actually BE safe – not just have the APPEARANCE OF SAFETY – what about you?
STAY SAFE! ** Jeff ** 214-215-2434
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