Illinois construction contractor faces $264K in proposed fines for again failing to protect employees from deadly fall hazards
United Custom Homes LLC, an Illinois construction contractor, is facing $264,143 in proposed fines for repeatedly failing to protect its employees from deadly fall hazards. This is the eighth time since 2015 that the company has been cited by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for safety violations.
Unsafe Working Conditions
During an inspection on August 23, 2023, OSHA found that employees of United Custom Homes were working at heights up to 20 feet without proper protective equipment on a residential home construction site in Naperville, Illinois. This puts the workers at risk of falls, which are one of the leading causes of fatal injuries in the construction industry.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that out of the 1,056 construction workers who suffered fatal on-the-job injuries in 2022, 423 of them died from falls. It is crucial for employers to prioritize safety measures to prevent such accidents from occurring.
Repeat Violations and Proposed Penalties
OSHA has cited United Custom Homes for one repeat, one willful, one serious, and one other-than-serious violations. These violations include the failure to provide fall protection equipment or train employees in fall hazards, improper use of ladders, and failure to recertify workers in the operation of powered industrial vehicles every three years.
The proposed penalties for these violations amount to $264,143. It is important for employers to understand that disregarding safety regulations can not only endanger workers’ lives but also result in significant financial consequences.
Implementing Safety Measures
Employers in the construction industry should prioritize the safety of their workers by implementing the following measures:
1. Fall Protection Equipment
Ensure that all workers are provided with and properly trained to use fall protection equipment, such as harnesses, guardrails, and safety nets. This equipment should be used whenever employees are working at heights.
2. Proper Use of Ladders
Train workers on the correct use of ladders and ensure that they are using them safely. Ladders should be inspected regularly for any defects and replaced if necessary.
3. Regular Training and Recertification
Workers operating powered industrial vehicles should be recertified every three years as required by regulations. This ensures that they are up to date with the latest safety procedures and practices.
4. Compliance with OSHA Regulations
Stay informed about the latest OSHA regulations and ensure that your workplace is in compliance with them. Regularly conduct safety audits and address any violations promptly.
Resources for Workplace Safety
OSHA’s “stop falls” website provides valuable safety information and resources to educate workers about fall hazards and proper safety procedures. They offer video presentations in English and Spanish, which can be accessed at https://www.osha.gov/stop-falls.
Take Action
United Custom Homes has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
It is crucial for employers to prioritize the safety of their workers and provide a safe working environment. By implementing proper safety measures and complying with regulations, employers can prevent accidents and protect their employees from harm.