OSHA Fines Sonny Steel Erectors for Continued Fall Protection Violations -- Occupational Health & Safety

OSHA Fines Sonny Steel Erectors for Continued Fall Protection Violations

The Houston-based company faces proposed penalties of $266,416.

By Robert Yaniz Jr.
Aug 04, 2023

OSHA has announced a new set of violations for Sonny Steel Erectors Inc. following a recent investigation.

In a release dated August 2, the agency announced it proposed $266,416 in fines to the Houston-based company, which specializes in commercial structural steel erection. That amount encompasses one serious violation, one willful violation and one repeat violation identified during a February 2023 visit. All three are tied to improper fall protection measures.

“Sonny Steel Erectors seems unwilling to end its long and troubling history of putting its employees at risk of serious injury or worse,” OSHA Area Director Mhekeba Hager in Houston said in a statement. “Our latest inspection found the company failed to correct hazards associated with violations dating back to 2011. We will not allow this company to continue its willful disobedience of the law.”

Sonny Steel Erectors previously faced OSHA fines as recently as October 2022. In that instance, the company was fined for not attaching a body belt or lanyard to the boom or basket while employees worked from an aerial lift. Sonny Steel Erectors now has 15 business days to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA or contest OSHA’s latest findings.

About the Author

Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

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