OSHA Inspection: MERLO, INC.

Issued

2026-05-01 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $11585.00 · Current $11500.00 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1926.850(a): Evidence in writing was not available that an engineering survey performed by a competent person had been performed prior to permitting employee(s) to start demolition operations:   (a) Washington Avenue Bridge, Wheeling, WV.  On January 7, 2026, the employer did not have in writing an engineering survey for the demolition project exposing employees to a bridge collapse.    No abatement certification or documentation required.

Issued

2026-05-01 00:00:00

Abate by

2026-06-04 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $11585.00 · Current $11500.00 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1926.856(a): Floors or working surfaces were not of sufficient strength to support the imposed load of mechanical equipment:  (a) Washington Avenue Bridge, Wheeling, WV.  On January 7, 2026, the employer did not ensure the working surfaces designated for demolition activities were of sufficient strength to support the weight of mechanical equipment, thereby exposing employees to crush-by hazards.  Abatement certification and documentation required within 10 days after abatement date. The certification shall include a statement that abatement is complete, the date and method of abatement, and state that employees and their representatives were informed of this abatement.  Abatement documentation shall include documents demonstrating that abatement is complete, such as evidence of the purchase or repair of equipment, photograph or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

2026-05-01 00:00:00

Abate by

2026-05-20 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $11585.00 · Current $0.00 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1926.859(g): During demolition, continuing inspections by a competent person were not made as the work progressed to detect hazards resulting from weakened or deteriorated floors, or walls, or loosened material. Employees were also permitted to work where such hazards existed without being corrected by shoring, bracing, or other effective means.  (a)  Washington Avenue Bridge, Wheeling, WV.  On January 7, 2026, the employer failed to conduct hazard inspections during the bridge demolition, increasing the risk of exposure to unsafe conditions.  Abatement certification and documentation required within 10 days after abatement date. The certification shall include a statement that abatement is complete, the date and method of abatement, and state that employees and their representatives were informed of this abatement.  Abatement documentation shall include documents demonstrating that abatement is complete, such as evidence of the purchase or repair of equipment, photograph or video evidence of abatement or other written records.