OSHA cited RECCHI America Inc.-GLF Construction Corp. and proposed penalties totaling $94,500 for safety violations at a Brunswick, Ga., bridge construction site.
According to Luis R. Santiago, OSHA''s Savannah area director, a formal complaint triggered the April 3 inspection of the Sidney Lanier bridge construction project.
OSHA found three serious violations and three repeat violations -- one''s similar to those for which the company was cited at the same location in August 1999 -- as a result of the inspection.
The alleged violations included:
- using improper rigging equipment;
- exceeding crane loading capacities;
- failing to train employees in flagging and rigging operations;
- improper storage of compressed gas cylinders;
- failing to barricade the swinging radius of crane superstructures; and failing to secure cranes to barges.
"Employers should take seriously the safety and health of their employees," said Santiago. "Following OSHA standards, providing adequate training and maintaining a safe workplace are sound investments for employers. Failing to take safety precautions can cost heavily in human suffering as well as financially."
RECCHI America Inc.-GLF Construction Corp. has 15 working days to contest OSHA''s citations before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
by Virginia Sutcliffe