Roofing Contractor Cited for Heat-related Illness
Tri-State Roofing and Sheet Metal Co. has been issued one general duty clause citation and one serious citation
OSHA has issued one general duty clause citation as well as one serious citation to Tri-State Roofing and Sheet Metal Co. for exposing employees to heat stress conditions.
OSHA started an investigation when a worker was hospitalized after being exposed to excessive heat while working outdoors in direct sunlight for approximately five hours. The company was also cited for electrical hazards. Proposed penalties are $6,552.
“When the heat index is high, it is critical for employers to acclimatize workers so they gradually adjust to working in hot temperatures. This company failed to do that,” said Prentice Cline, OSHA's area director in Charleston. “Providing water, rest and shade are three actions that are equally important and must be implemented to save workers’ lives.”