OSHA started this investigation after inspectors witnessed workers exposed to fall hazards at two commercial work sites in Wisconsin. The agency said a contracting company failed to train its workers.
As a result, GTO Contractors LLC, based in Neenah, WI, faces $121,660 in OSHA fines. All of the violations relate to failing to protect workers from falls.
OSHA issued the following citations:
- two willful violations for failing to provide fall protection on a steep-pitch roof at two construction locations
- two repeat violations for not providing workers with fall protection training at two construction sites. Similar violations were cited in 2007, and
- two serious violations for not implementing a safety and health program for workers.
GTO had been inspected by OSHA five times since 2007, resulting in citations for five violations related to fall protection standards.
Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry.
OSHA assistance with fall protection regulations can be found here.