U.S. Department of Labor Cites Two Florida Construction Contractors After Fatal Fall at Miami Work Site

MIAMI, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited GA&L Construction Corp. Inc. and The Rinaldi Group of Florida LLC for failing to protect employees from fall hazards at a construction worksite in Miami, Florida. The two companies face $87,327 in penalties. 

An employee was fatally injured after falling from an elevated work platform. OSHA inspectors determined that workers were exposed to fall, struck-by, and impalement hazards. OSHA cited the employers for failing to provide fall protection, and conduct regular inspections of the worksite, and permitting workers to use an unsecured extension ladder.

"Workplace safety standards exist to ensure that workers return to their families at the end of each day free from harm," said OSHA Fort Lauderdale Area Director Condell Eastmond. "Disregarding legal obligations to identify and eliminate hazards can cause tragedies."

Read the citations for GA&L Construction Corp. Inc. and The Rinaldi Group of Florida.

OSHA offers compliance assistance resources on fall protection in construction at https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3146.pdf.

The companies have 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 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 help 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.