Construction Company accused of putting workers at risk on unstable scaffolding

Illescas Brothers Construction Inc. of Paterson has been accused of allowing employees to work on unstable scaffolding, among other safety violations, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration said Monday.

The 12 alleged safety violations took place while the company was performing masonry work on a new home in Fort Lee, OSHA said. Penalties could total $65,340.

"A careless approach to worker safety and health, evidenced by these violations, places Illescas Brothers Construction employees at risk of serious injury and possible death," said Lisa Levy, director of OSHA's Hasbrouck Heights area office, which investigated the case.

OSHA said when its inspectors arrived at the work site on June 28, they found bricklayers climbing the cross braces of a work platform 24 feet above the ground, and other employees working on an unstable scaffold 18 feet above the ground. The inspectors also said workers were not properly protected against falls.

Illescas Brothers was cited for similar violations in August 2007 at an Edgewater work site. The three scaffolding violations carry a total of $55,440 in potential penalties.

The company also was accused of six violations defined as serious, carrying a total of $9,900 in penalties, include failing to implement a respiratory protection plan, protect employees from falling material and provide safe access to a landing surface.

The company also was charged with failing to provide safety information, a portable fire extinguisher and a written hazard communications program. These violations do not carry any financial penalties.

The company has 15 business days to either comply with safety regulations, ask to meet with OSHA's area director or contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Source: KATHLEEN LYNN, North Jersey.com