Labor Department Cites Contractor for 16 Serious Violations After Fatalities

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued citations and proposed penalties of $257,707 against Construction Labor Services Inc. after an investigation revealed 16 serious safety violations. These violations contributed to a hazardous condition where workers were exposed to sewage gas in a manhole, leading to two fatalities and one worker becoming unresponsive. The investigation found the employer lacked essential confined space entry programs, procedures, training, and emergency response plans.

Construction Labor Services Inc. has 15 business days to respond to the citations by complying, requesting an informal conference, or contesting the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. Failure to address these violations could result in adjusted penalties. The agency also highlighted resources for employers on confined workspace safety and compliance assistance.