OSHA Proposes $161K in Penalties to Winter Haven Contractor for Exposing Workers to Deadly Falls

For the second time in five years, the U.S. Department of Labor has found a Winter Haven contractor allowed employees to do roof work without adequate protection exposing workers to falls, one of the construction industry's deadliest hazards.

The department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration inspection found that at an Ave Maria residential jobsite in January 2024, Carpenter Contractors of America Inc. willfully exposed employees to a 32-foot fall hazard as they did not require fall protection equipment for employees securing trusses and roof facia. OSHA has proposed $161,323 in penalties.

"Falls from elevation kill more construction workers than any other industry hazards and yet, far too often, we find employers exposing their employees to debilitating injuries or worse," explained OSHA Area Director Condell Eastmond in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. "A commitment to safety must be much more than a phrase on a company's website, it must involve changing the workplace safety culture. Safety harnesses and other types of fall protection can be the difference between a worker ending the shift safely or being rushed to a hospital."

The employer has locations in Belvidere, Illinois; Fayetteville, North Carolina; and three locations in Florida in Fort Myers, Pompano Beach and Winter Haven.

Employers can get free consultation from OSHA or free information to assist in developing their safety plans, including steps to prevent falls that can result in dangerous and even fatal incidents.

"Workers have a right to a safe workplace, and employers must take all necessary steps to protect them, including identifying and eliminating hazards commonly associated with their industry. If they fail to do so, they can expect hefty fines like the one assessed in this investigation," added Eastmond.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit OSHA's website to learn more.

Visit OSHA's website for information on developing a workplace safety and health program. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA's compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.