OSHA has cited Dublin, Ohio-based roofing contractor Jerry Turnbaugh for exposing employees to falls at three separate residential home sites in Pickerington, Ohio. Turnbaugh faces a total of $148,430 in penalties for five alleged willful safety violations.
All three investigations were initiated under the local emphasis program on falls, according to a news release. In May, inspectors observed employees working on a residential roof without adequate fall protection, and in June, inspectors twice observed company crews exposed to fall hazards while working on separate residential home sites. OSHA cited the company for failing to provide appropriate fall protection, for failing to train employees to recognize and minimize fall hazards, and for failing to develop safety programs.
“A contractor places workers’ lives at risk by allowing them to work at dangerous heights without proper fall protection,” said acting OSHA Columbus, Ohio, area director David Wilson. “Falls are consistently one of OSHA’s most commonly cited hazards. With proper training and appropriate protection, these injuries can be prevented.”
The company has 15 days from the receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with their area director, or contest the findings.
