Roofing Company Cited After Worker Dies on Third Day on the Job
The laborer suffered a heat stroke
A Jefferson City, Missouri, roofing contractor has been cited after a worker died of heat stroke on August 17, 2016. The worker had a core body temperature above 107 degrees.
According to a report, OSHA has determined the employee collapsed while installing roofing materials on his third day on the job. The agency has cited Weathercraft incorporated for one serious violation of OSHA’s general duty clause.
“This tragedy occurred on this worker’s third day on the job. His needless death underscores how critical it is for employers to ensure that workers are acclimated to heat conditions. A review of heat-related deaths across industries finds most workers were new to the job and not physically used to the constant heat and sun exposure," said Karena Lorek, OSHA’s acting area director in Kansas City. “Workers should have frequent access to water, rest and shade to prevent heat illness and injuries during the hot summer months and during hot indoor conditions and be trained to recognize and respond to the signs of heat-related illness.”