U.S. Department of Labor Again Cites Ohio Contractor For Exposing Roofing Workers to Falls

COLUMBUS, OH ‒ The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Alejandro Vazquez Gallegos – a contractor based in Columbus, Ohio – for exposing employees to falls at job sites in Pickerington and Galena, Ohio. The roofing contractor faces penalties of $236,642 for two willful, two repeat and four serious safety violations.

OSHA opened both inspections under the local emphasis program for falls. On Nov. 5, 2019, inspectors observed employees working on a residential roof in Pickerington without adequate fall protection. OSHA cited the company for failing to train employees on fall protection and ensure that employees wore safety glasses, and for improper ladder usage. On Nov. 26, 2019, OSHA inspectors observed a company crew working on a residential home site in Galena and found employees again exposed to the same hazards.

“Falls are consistently one of OSHA’s most cited hazards, but can be prevented with proper training and appropriate protection,” said OSHA Columbus Area Director Larry Johnson. “This contractor continues to put workers’ lives at risk by allowing them to work at heights without fall protection.”

OSHA’s Fall Protection webpage provides information on what employers can do to reduce falls, and on appropriate fall protection systems for roofing workers.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the 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 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.

The mission of the Department of Labor is to foster, promote and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.