Federal investigators cite Florida roofing contractor for willfully, repeatedly ignoring fall protection standards, propose $349K in fines

Federal investigators cite Florida roofing contractor for willfully, repeatedly ignoring fall protection standards, propose $349K in fines ORLANDO, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor has cited a Florida roofing company for willfully putting workers at risk of falling at residential construction sites. Investigators with the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration found that on Jan. 21, 2026, Orchids Builders LLC exposed workers to a 10-foot fall hazard when it failed to provide them with fall protection while they installed sheathing on a sloped roof at a Rockledge worksite. On March 10, 2026, OSHA investigators found the employer exposed a worker to a 9-foot fall hazard while installing metal hurricane clips at another Rockledge worksite. OSHA also found that Orchids Builders failed to prepare and maintain written fall protection training certificates for employees at both worksites, did not ensure workers had eye protection while using nail guns,...

US Department of Labor urges caution for workers involved in recovery efforts after powerful storms impact Mississippi, Southeast

US Department of Labor urges caution for workers involved in recovery efforts after powerful storms impact Mississippi, Southeast
ATLANTA - After severe weather swept through much of the Southeast on March 24 and spawned at least 27 tornadoes across Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee, workers involved in cleanup activities face dangers during recovery operations. To reduce these dangers, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration urges employers to ensure that workers have the proper training, equipment and expertise to perform cleanup activities. Workers face hazards related to falls, downed power lines, fallen trees and struck-by hazards as they conduct recovery operations. Employers and workers should also be aware of heat illness, and hazards posed from equipment used during response and recovery operations. “The deadly storms that impacted much of the Southeast generated horrific results. OSHA urges employers and workers not to compound this tragedy by failing to be mindful in evaluating and mitigating hazards during recovery efforts,” said OSHA Regional Administrator Kurt Petermeyer in Atlanta. “The use of safety procedures and appropriate personal protective equipment can prevent injuries and save lives.” Hazards often associated with tornado recovery efforts include: Falling objects such as tree limbs and construction materials. Sharp objects like nails and broken glass. Electrical hazards from downed power lines or objects in contact with power lines. Falls from heights. Improper use of portable generators, saws, ladders and other equipment. OSHA’s Tornado Preparedness and Response page provides additional information to assist in planning cleanup work safely. Learn more about OSHA.

Published at March 30, 2023 at 05:00PM
Read more at https://dol.gov

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