OSHA cites two companies after workers falls and drowns

The U.S. Department of Labor recently cited a Florida painting subcontractor and a site controller after a worker fell from a bridge while removing scaffolding and drowned.

OSHA cited Tarpon Springs, Florida-based Seminole Equipment Inc. for five willful and three serious violations for willfully exposing workers to fall and drowning hazards, proposing $877,220 in penalties.

The agency also issued two serious violations to The L.C. Whitford Co. Inc., the controlling employer for the site, proposing a penalty of $26,480.

“No American should go into work fearing they might not make it home at the end of the day," said Lori Chavez-DeRemer, secretary of labor. "OSHA is taking concrete enforcement action to stop preventable tragedies."

Workers did not wear life jackets, fall protection

OSHA investigators determined that on April 7, Seminole Equipment Inc. bridge painters were removing scaffolding from the southbound I-95 bridge on the Ogeechee River in Georgia when one worker fell into the river and drowned. The agency concluded that Seminole Equipment failed to ensure employees used fall protection and life jackets while working on the bridge section.

"The Department of Labor is committed to protecting our nation's workforce by holding bad actors accountable," said Keith Sonderling, deputy secretary of labor. "We will continue addressing careless practices when we see them to achieve our shared goal of safe and productive workplaces for all Americans."

The companies have 15 business days from receipt of their citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. Penalties and citations may be adjusted throughout the course of the case process.

OSHA offers resources to help businesses develop an adequate workplace safety and health program. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA's compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.