U.S. Department of Labor Cites New Jersey Roofing Company

HEWITT, NJ - The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited roofing contractor John Prevete Framing LLC for exposing employees to safety hazards while performing residential demolition work at a Passaic County, New Jersey, site. OSHA proposed $221,343 in penalties.

OSHA inspected the site on Oct. 2, 2017, based on a referral from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development Administration. OSHA inspectors cited the Hewitt, New Jersey-based company for exposing workers to falls from using unsafe ladders; failing to provide required fall protection; exposing employees to asbestos; and failing to provide asbestos safety training. OSHA had previously cited the contractor in 2013, 2016, and 2017.

“Exposure to dangerous fall and asbestos hazards can be prevented if appropriate safety requirements are followed,” said Lisa Levy, Hasbrouck Heights OSHA Area Director. “This employer’s repeated disregard of OSHA standards continues to jeopardize the safety of workers.”

The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit https://www.osha.gov.