Real-life Scenario
Roofing Contractor Repeatedly Exposes Workers to Fall and Safety Hazards
In September 2024, a roofing contractor operating in Pennsylvania, USA, was the subject of an OSHA inspection following a complaint involving imminent fall hazards. The inspection revealed multiple safety violations that placed workers at serious risk while working at elevation and around other workplace dangers.
Though no injuries were specifically recorded at the time of inspection, the conditions identified posed a significant threat of serious injury or death—particularly related to fall protection failures.
OSHA Findings
The inspection uncovered a pattern of non-compliance and serious lapses in safety protocol. OSHA cited the employer for the following violations:
Willful Violations:- Failure to provide fall protection systems for workers exposed to fall hazards.
- Failure to ensure workers used required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Improper labeling and storage of flammable containers.
- Employees working near live electrical circuits without protective safeguards.
- Use of ladders in an unsafe and non-compliant manner.
Enforcement Action
Due to the repeated nature of these violations and the employer’s history of similar infractions, OSHA placed the company into its Severe Violator Enforcement Program (SVEP). This designation is reserved for employers who demonstrate a consistent disregard for their legal obligation to protect worker safety. The agency proposed penalties totaling $467,000.
Preventative Measures
To avoid similar violations and protect workers:
- Always implement and maintain OSHA-compliant fall protection systems.
- Enforce consistent use of PPE across all job sites.
- Conduct regular safety inspections to identify and correct hazards.
- Provide workers with comprehensive training on ladder safety, PPE use, and safe procedures around electrical systems.
This case highlights the importance of proactive safety planning and strict adherence to OSHA standards in high-risk industries like construction.