U.S. Department of Labor Investigation Finds New Jersey Contractor Exposed Employees to Lead and Other Hazards at Pennsylvania Worksite

FRENCHTOWN, NJ – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Scot Christopher Rule LLC for exposing workers to lead and other workplace hazards as the company renovated and remodeled a worksite in Easton, Pennsylvania. The company faces $104,637 in proposed penalties.

OSHA initiated a follow-up inspection in February 2019, after the Frenchtown, New Jersey, painting and wall covering contractor failed to provide proof of abatement related to a 2017 investigation. Inspectors cited the company with four willful violations that included failing to; provide employees with training and information concerning lead and hazardous chemicals, conduct an initial determination to identify employees' level of exposure to lead, and not having a written lead compliance program. In addition, OSHA cited the Scot Christopher Rule for permitting improper use of respirators, another serious violation.

In May 2019, OSHA completed a second inspection after a complaint that the employer exposed employees operating aerial lifts to fall hazards, and cited additional serious violations.

"Overexposure to lead can result in a wide range of debilitating medical conditions," said OSHA Area Director Jean Kulp, in Allentown, Pennsylvania. "The most effective way to minimize exposure is to use engineering controls, provide training, and use protective clothing and equipment."

OSHA offers compliance assistance resources on preventing fall hazards, lead exposure in construction, and personal protective equipment.

Scot Christopher Rule has 15 business days from receipt of the citations (view them here and here) 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.