Last week, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced that it has cited a Louisiana crane company for alleged safety violations. Of the eight violations, six are considered serious. The total proposed fines carry $71,500 in penalties.
An investigation into safety at the facility began July 18, when four workers were struck and killed by a falling crane. According to a statement released by OSHA, the boom reached an unsafe angle and caused the crane to collapse backward onto the workers.
A representative from OSHA said that if the project superintendant had enforced safety regulations, then it is possible that the crane accident could been avoided. There are also concerns that the crane operator may not have received adequate training. The company has 15 days from receipt of their citations to comply with safety regulations, request a meeting with OSHA, or contest the fines.
Louisiana crane company fined for accident that killed four, Houston Chronicle, January 16, 2009
Contact a Massachusetts crane accident lawyer if you have been injured on the job.