Roofing Contractor Puts Worker in Danger 72 Hours after Previous Death: OSHA
OSHA says Kolek Woodshop Inc. shows "blatant disregard" for workers' safety.
Three days after a fatal electrocution during a roofing job, Kolek Woodshop Inc., sent another employee to finish the job, exposing him to the same hazardous conditions that led to the first death, according to OSHA, which has cited the roofing contractor for willfully exposing the second worker to preventable electrical hazards.
"The blatant disregard for worker safety demonstrated is horrifying and completely despicable. This company's failure to implement basic safeguards resulted in tragedy," said Christopher Robinson, director of OSHA's Pittsburgh Area Office. "Kolek’s willingness to expose another person's life to the same dangers just 72 hours after the first fatality is alarming. Employers must provide a safe and healthful workplace, and OSHA will hold them accountable if they do not."
An investigation determined that the employer provided workers with a ladder without non-conductive side rails. The ladder then contacted power lines, which resulted in the fatality. The investigators also concluded that the company erected an aluminum scaffold too close to a 7,200-volt power line; exposed roofing workers removing shingles to fall hazards; and failed to train employees.