The construction company you work for has certain responsibilities to you as an employee. These responsibilities include providing you with the proper training and equipment to stay safe while on the job. A failure to do this can put your safety and their security at risk.

Recently, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited both the University of Rochester Strong Memorial Hospital and DGA Builders LLC for 14 serious violations of workplace standards for putting workers at an undue risk. In all, the companies face a total of more than $53,000 in proposed fines.

According to an OSHA press release, the agency began an investigation following the receipt of a complaint. They were called out to the hospital, which had contracted with DGA Builders to do some demolition and renovation work. Asbestos-containing material was discovered in the area where the work was to be done. The bulk of violations found by OSHA were related to the failures of both companies to keep the workers safe from the asbestos.

The hospital itself reportedly didn’t determine the presence of the asbestos or its location and quantity. Thus, the work area was not labeled as containing asbestos, and no warning signs were posted.

Both the hospital and DGA failed to provide training to employees, asbestos exposure monitoring, or the equipment necessary to minimize inhalation.

“This is a situation that could have been avoided if the proper protective steps had been taken at the onset of the job,” said local OSHA director Art Dube. “In failing to do so, both employers put workers at risk of asbestos exposure.”

The hospital, facing eight serious violations, has been hit with $40,000 in fines. DGA Builders, on the other hand, is facing $13,200 in fines for six serious violations. OSHA classifies “serious violations” as those that create “substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.”

Asbestos, a known carcinogen (cancer-causing agent), is a material that was commonly used in buildings decades ago. Workers in the present who are remodeling or demolishing structures with asbestos materials in them can still be exposed to the dangerous substance.

New Jersey and New York Construction Accident Lawyers

Whether you are exposed to asbestos or hurt in a fall, the construction accident lawyers of Ginarte may be able to help. Contact our offices today to discuss your construction accident and your legal options. Call (888) GINARTE.