OSHA Inspection: TUBAUGH REMODELING LLC

Issued

Sep 17, 2014

Abate by

Sep 29, 2014

Penalty

Initial $7,000 · Current $4,900 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1926.501(b)(13): "Residential construction." Each employee engaged in residential construction activities 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels shall be protected by guardrail systems, safety net system, or personal fall arrest system unless another provision in paragraph (b) of this section provides for an alternative fall protection measure. Exception: When the employer can demonstrate that it is infeasible or creates a greater hazard to use these systems, the employer shall develop and implement a fall protection plan which meets the requirements of paragraph (k) of 1926.502. Note: There is a presumption that it is feasible and will not create a greater hazard to implement at least one of the above-listed fall protection systems. Accordingly, the employer has the burden of establishing that it is appropriate to implement a fall protection plan which complies with 1926.502(k) for a particular workplace situation, in lieu of implementing any of those systems.  a.  At the work site, employees were demolishing a two-story cottage that initially involved removing the roof and trusses.  Employees worked along the edge of the attic floor and stood on the porch roof at the rear of the cottage, approximately 20 feet above ground level at the highest point.  Employees were not protected from a fall hazard of approximately 20 feet.

Issued

Sep 17, 2014

Abate by

Oct 2, 2014

Penalty

Initial $7,000 · Current $4,900 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1926.850(a): Prior to permitting employees to start demolition operations, an engineering survey shall be made, by a competent person, of the structure to determine the condition of the framing, floors, and walls, and possibility of unplanned collapse of any portion of the structure. Any adjacent structure where employees may be exposed shall also be similarly checked. The employer shall have in writing evidence that such a survey has been performed.  a.  At the site at 215 North Main Street in Bethesda, Ohio, the employer did not ensure that an engineering survey was performed before allowing employees to begin demolition work on two multi-story cottages that were to be removed.