Two roofing companies cited after Colorado workers exposed to fall hazards

Roofing contractor Aspen Contracting, Inc., and subcontractor J Cuellar, LLC, were cited for repeatedly failing to protect workers from fall hazards, and failing to conduct regular inspections of the worksite. J Cuellar was cited for a fall protection violation. The companies face penalties totaling $147,998.

Florida roofing contractor cited for repeatedly exposing workers to fall hazards

Roofing contractor Turnkey Construction Planners, Inc., faces $199,184 in penalties for exposing workers to fall hazards. During an inspection initiated as part of OSHA's Regional Emphasis Program on Falls in Construction, inspectors observed workers without fall protection at two worksites. OSHA cited the company four times in the past five years for similar violations.

Kansas drywall contractor cited following fatal forklift incident

Midwest Drywall Company, Inc., faces $77,604 in penalties after a worker was fatally crushed by part of a forklift. OSHA inspectors determined that the company failed to properly secure a suspended and supported load, and ensure that workers were kept clear of it. The company was also cited for violations of the forklift, machine guarding, and control of hazardous energy standards.

Minnesota cites co-op after fatal grain engulfment

Minnesota OSHA issued six willful serious citations and $375,000 in penalties to Meadowland Farmers Co-op after a worker became engulfed by grain and suffocated. Inspectors determined that the co-op failed to guard a grain chute floor hole, ensure workers wore a body harness with a lifeline, and provide a safety observer or rescue equipment for workers entering a silo.

Nebraska dairy company cited after worker fatality

OSHA cited Thiele Dairy for failing to implement a safety and health program for grain bin entry. A worker removing corn from inside a grain bin was fatally injured when an operating sweep auger lacerated his leg. The dairy was also cited for failing to report the fatality within the required eight hours. Thiele faces $78,899 in penalties.

Contractor cited following crane collapse at NYC construction worksite

Western Specialty Contractors was cited and fined $155,204 for exposing workers to injuries after an unsecured mini-crane overturned and fell four stories. The company was cited for failing to ensure that crane operators were trained, evaluated, and deemed competent to operate the equipment; permitting the operation of a crane in excess of its rated lifting capacity; and not verifying that the load lifted was within the crane's rated capacity.

Ohio UPS facility cited for blocking exits

OSHA cited United Parcel Service for exposing workers to fire, entrapment, and emergency evacuation hazards. Inspectors determined that the company allowed exit routes to be blocked by packages and equipment. The company faces $208,603 in penalties.