OSHA has cited Modern Painting & Decorating of Springdale for workplace safety violations following a fatal worker electrocution at a New Kensington, Pa., worksite, an agency press release states.
OSHA initiated an investigation on April 7, the same day the employee, who was working on the roof while painting the exterior of a building, came in contact with a high-voltage power line.
"The employer was aware of the existence and proximity of the overhead power lines, as well as the danger they posed to employees, yet took no action to ensure worker safety," said Robert Szymanski, area director of OSHA's Pittsburgh, Pa., office.
The company was cited with one willful violation for permitting employees to work in proximity to energized electric power circuits. OSHA defines a willful violation as one committed with plain indifference to or intentional disregard for employees' safety and health.
OSHA inspectors also issued two serious violations because the company did not provide adequate fall protection or train employees in the recognition and avoidance of fall hazards. An OSHA violation is serious if death or serious physical harm can result from a hazard an employer knew or should have known exists.
Pennsylvania company cited for safety violations following worker electrocution (10/6)