OSHA Identifies Safety Violations at Florida Construction Contractors
The crane safety failures led to a fatal incident on a highway ramp in Orlando, Florida.
- By Robert Yaniz Jr.
- Apr 26, 2024
In a recent OSHA investigation, two Florida construction contractors were cited for serious safety violations. The decision followed an incident during a crane operation on a highway ramp in Orlando, Florida, resulting in the death of a 37-year-old worker.
According to a recent release, OSHA revealed that the crane—operated by Adcock Cranes Inc. of Plant City, Florida—tipped over while lifting a 10,700-pound concrete sound barrier panel. An outrigger of the crane failed, causing it to lean and strike an aerial lift operated by an employee of Concrete Impressions of Florida Inc. from Tampa, Florida. The aerial lift was within the crane’s swing radius at the time of the incident.
OSHA's report highlighted that the ground conditions were not adequately assessed to support the crane, leading to a citation against Adcock Cranes and a proposed penalty of $16,131. Concrete Impressions received citations for one serious violation for improper use of extension ladders to access sound barrier panels and another less severe violation related to the lack of required inspection documentation for lifting equipment. The penalties proposed for Concrete Impressions total $4,839.
“The death of any worker is a terrible loss that leaves their family, friends and co-workers devastated. Their pain only worsened when learning the tragedy could have been prevented,” OSHA Area Office Director Erin Sanchez in Orlando said in a statement. “Our investigation found Concrete Impressions and Adcock Cranes failed in their responsibilities to provide employees with a safe work environment.”
Both companies have 15 business days from receipt of their citations to comply, request an informal conference or contest the findings before an independent commission.
About the Author
Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.