U.S. Department of Labor Cites Atlanta Contractor for Safety Hazards After Employee Fatality on I-285 Highway Project

ATLANTA, GA – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Martin-Pinero CPM LLC – a construction contractor based in Atlanta, Georgia – for exposing employees to fall hazards after a fatal incident at a highway construction project in Atlanta. The company faces $170,020 in penalties.

OSHA initiated the inspection after an employee suffered a fatal injury in a fall while attempting to install permanent metal decking on the I-400/I-285 fly over bridge ramp. The agency cited the contractor for failing to ensure employees used a horizontal lifeline system and fall protection, as required. OSHA also cited the contractor for failing to secure metal decking before allowing workers to use it as a walking surface, provide fall protection training and conduct regular job site inspections to ensure the use of all applicable safety measures. OSHA conducted its inspection in conjunction with the Regional Emphasis Program on Falls in Construction.

“Allowing employees to work at heights without using proper fall protection methods increases the risk of serious or fatal injuries,” said OSHA Atlanta-West Area Office Director Jeffery Stawowy. “Employers have an obligation to ensure the working conditions they ask employees to operate under are free of recognized hazards.”  

OSHA’s Fall Protection webpage provides information on fall protection standards in construction, and resources on protecting workers from falls.

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 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.

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.