Two Contractors cited after 25-Foot Fall Fatally Injures Carpenter and Seriously Injuries Another

Two Contractors cited after 25-Foot Fall Fatally Injures Carpenter and Seriously Injuries Another

Two employees doing framework at a residential construction project, in 2021, had no prior warning when the platform underneath them failed; they both fell 25 feet, about two stories tall. Head Trauma killed a 49-year-old crew leader, and the second, a 40-year-old suffered fractures to his leg, knee, ribs and nose.

OSHA performed an investigation that found their employer had failed to have a competent person train their workers to recognize fall hazards. In addition, OSHA cited the company for failing to report a work-related death to the agency within 8 hours, required by law. They face fines upwards of $40k.

“One man’s family is left to grieve, and another man suffered serious injuries because Alejandro Carpentry did not take the necessary steps to prevent this tragic event. Falls continue to be a leading cause of death and serious injury in the construction industry. OSHA encourages industry employees to contact our staff to recognize and address safety hazards so their workers can return home safely at the end of the day.”

OSHA Area Director, Danielle Jindra – Tampa, FL

In addition, OSHA found the primary contractor lacking a competent person conduct frequent and regular inspections of the job site, or materials and equipment to identify and mitigate safety and health hazards. This results in fines of $4k.

Useful information on protecting roofing workers and required fall protection in construction can be found thanks to OSHA.