Keyport, N.J.-based Shamrock Construction Group Inc. has been cited by OSHA for an alleged repeat violation found while workers were engaged in the construction of a new commercial facility in Jersey City. OSHA’s June investigation began in response to a referral from the Jersey City Police Department after a construction worker fell approximately 45 feet while performing steel erection.
Although the worker survived, his injuries were very serious: He shattered his right elbow, broke his right kneecap and fractured his pelvis. His liver and kidneys were punctured as well, according to an OSHA spokeswoman.
The repeat violation, which carryies a proposed penalty of $53,900, involves the company’s failure to protect a worker from fall hazards while engaged in decking construction operations. The company was cited with similar violations in 2007 and 2012. A repeat violation exists when an employer previously has been cited for the same or a similar violation of a standard, regulation, rule or order at any other facility in federal enforcement states within the last five years.
“Falls remain the leading cause of death in the construction industry. It's imperative that employers ensure that workers are provided with proper fall protection equipment and are trained to wear it at all times a fall hazard is present,” said Kris Hoffman, director of OSHA’s Parsippany Area Office. “Employers, such as Shamrock Construction Group, will continue to be held legally responsible by OSHA for repeatedly exposing workers to fall hazards. Jeopardizing workers’ lives will not be tolerated.”
OSHA has created a Stop Falls Web page with detailed information in English and Spanish on fall protection standards. The page offers fact sheets, posters and videos that vividly illustrate various fall hazards and appropriate preventive measures.
Shamrock Construction Group has 15 business days from receipt of the citations to comply, request an informal conference with Hoffman or contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.