OSHA Cites Orlowski Co. Inc. for Numerous Willful Workplace Health and Safety Violations

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U.S. Department of Labor's OSHA Cites Orlowski Co. Inc. for Numerous Willful Workplace Health and Safety Violations

Federal action proposes $175,600 penalties for Chicago-based company

Chicago -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Orlowski Co. Inc., a building masonry company based in Chicago, for multiple alleged willful and serious violations of federal workplace safety and health standards.

As a result of an inspection initiated in February, OSHA has issued citations for five willful violations with proposed penalties totaling $175,000. The willful violations address Orlowski Co. Inc.'s failure to provide fall protection on scaffolds and hoist equipment and its failure to provide fall protection for employees working at or near floor holes at the construction site. OSHA defines a willful violation as one committed with plain indifference to or intentional disregard for employee safety and health.

OSHA also issued a citation for a serious violation with a proposed $600 fine for failing to initiate and maintain a safety and health program.

"Falls at construction sites are preventable," said Gary Anderson, director of OSHA's area office in Calumet City, Ill. "They are tragedies that can be avoided if an employer is dedicated to protecting employees. Employers must remain vigilant to ensure a safe and healthful workplace. Failure to do so will result in close scrutiny by this agency."

For the rest of this article please feel free to visit www.osha.gov.