OSHA has cited Jaime Martinez Hernandez – a residential framing contractor based in Phenix City, Alabama – for exposing employees to fall and struck-by hazards at two Alabama worksites. The contractor faces $240,880 in penalties.

The violations

The agency conducted the inspections in conjunction with the agency’s Regional Emphasis Program for Falls in Construction after investigators observed employees working from heights without fall protection at worksites in Auburn and Opelika. OSHA cited the contractor for failing to train employees on fall hazards, allowing employees to engage in framing activities without fall protection and not requiring them to wear eye protection when using pneumatic nail guns. In addition, OSHA cited the contractor for allowing employees to use a ladder that did not extend at least 3 feet past the upper landing of a structure and use of the top step of an A-frame ladder.

A six-time offender

OSHA has inspected this contractor six times in the past five years, citing him for willful, repeat and serious violations for lack of eye and fall protection, and other fall-related hazards.

“Allowing workers to perform residential framing activities without utilizing required safety measures unnecessarily places them at risk for serious or fatal injuries,” said OSHA Area Office Director Jose Gonzalez, in Mobile, Alabama.

OSHA’s floor joist installation and decking factsheet explains fall protection requirements, using the right fall protection system and proper use of ladders.