U.S. Department of Labor Fines Pennsylvania Framing Contractor For Exposing Employees to Fall Hazards

ALLENTOWN, PA – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited framing contractor Navy Contractors, Inc. for willfully exposing employees to fall hazards at residential construction sites in Royersford, Collegeville, and Center Valley, Pennsylvania. The company faces $603,850 in penalties.

OSHA initiated inspections at the three jobsites after inspectors saw employees performing framing work without fall protection. OSHA cited the company for failing to provide fall protection equipment and training, improper use of ladders, deficiencies in walking/working surfaces, and inadequate fire protection.

At the Royersford site, Navy Contractors Inc. operated as a subcontractor under the supervision of a controlling general contractor, which was Blue Lion Ventures Inc. - doing business as Storm Guard of Ches-Mont Inc. in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. OSHA also cited the general contractor for failing to provide fall protection. OSHA previously inspected Navy Contractors Inc.'s worksites and determined in two of the inspections that the company willfully disregarded their obligation to provide fall protection.

"Knowingly and repeatedly ignoring fall protection requirements places workers at risk for serious or fatal injuries," said OSHA Allentown Area Director Jean Kulp. "All construction employers, regardless of their contracting status, are legally required to comply with regulations to protect workers' safety and health."

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health 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 help ensure these conditions for American working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education, and assistance. For more information, visit https://www.osha.gov.