OSHA cites Lake Zurich contractor Fino Exterior for 13 safety violations, proposes US$262,631 in penalties; company cited eight times since 2020 for exposing workers to fall hazards

Fino Exterior faces $262K more in fines amid history of jeopardizing employees

LAKE ZURICH, IL – For the eighth time since 2020, federal workplace safety inspectors have cited a Lake Zurich roofing contractor for exposing workers to falls from elevation, the leading cause of fatal and serious injuries among people employed in the construction industry.

Inspectors with the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration observed employees of Fino Exterior Inc. working atop residential structures without legally required fall protection equipment on four occasions in 2024, in Palatine on Feb. 6, Orland Park on June 12, Palos Heights on Aug. 16 and Shorewood on Oct. 16. Fino Exterior's troubling history of ignoring federal safety regulations continued as OSHA cited the company for 13 safety violations in three inspections in four months and proposed $262,631 in penalties.Este documento es muy importante. Si ud. No habla inglés, busque un traductor o llame al (708) 342-2840. U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration 8505 W. 183rd Street, Suite C Tinley Park, IL 60487 Phone: (708) 342-2840 Fax: (708) 444-0042 December 2, 2024 Step 1 – Choose a Response Dear Antonio Arellano Sr., Option and Act within 15 working days On 10/16/2024, an OSHA compliance officer met with you or your representative as part of an inspection at Respond now before you lose the ability to discuss 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, IL 60435. This letter potential adjustments to penalty amounts and/or includes the citations for the violations that were found (see due dates. Please choose one option below and summary below). Please choose one of the three options complete the steps on the next page. from the box to the right and complete the associated steps found on the following page within 15 working days. Option #1 – Discuss with OSHA Please call us if you have any questions about the enclosed I would like to discuss the citation with an citation and/or penalties; we are here to help you choose the OSHA representative. This may lead to best option to resolve your citation as quickly as possible. changes in the penalty amount, due date or correction deadlines (if appropriate). Sincerely, Option #2 – Correct and Pay I agree with the citation, penalties, and correction James Martineck, Area Director deadlines, and do not contest. Your Citation Summary Fino Exterior Inc. Option #3 – Contest the Citation I d o n o t a g r e e with the citation, penalties, Inspection Number: 1782356 a n d / o r c o r r e c t i o n d e a d li n e s , a n d would like to contest. Total Amount Due: $89,229.00 Payment Due Date: 15 working days Questions or Concerns? after receipt of If you have any questions or this letter concerns regarding the citation, penalties, and/or correction deadlines, please call us at (708) You must correct each violation by the date listed in the 342-2840. Citation and Notification of Penalty. Please see the violations and the correction deadline for each violation starting on page 6. Total Number of Violations: 4 Your First Correction Deadline is: 01-21-2025 Step 2 – Complete One Option Checklist Please post a copy of the citation at or near the place where each violation occurred, even if you plan to contest. You can use the checklist to the right to help plan your next steps. Please do not send in your checklist. Option #1 – Discuss with OSHA I will complete by: 1. Call: James Martineck, Area Director, at (708) 342-2840 as soon as possible to schedule a meeting with an OSHA representative that must occur within ___ / ___ 15 working days of receiving this citation. Bring supporting documentation of existing conditions and corrections done thus far. If necessary, you can still contest the citation after this meeting. **This meeting does NOT extend your 15 working day deadline to contest the citation.** 2. Fill in and post the attached “Notice to Employees OSHA Informal Conference” after scheduling meeting. ___ / ___ Option #2 – Correct Violations and Pay Penalty I will complete by: 1. Correct violations, then complete and mail the attached “Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet” along with the appropriate evidence of ___ / ___ repair (e.g. photos, purchase orders, etc.) to the OSHA office listed on the first page, postmarked within 10 calendar days after each violation's correction deadline and include any required evidence. If these documents are transmitted by means other than mailing, the date the Agency received the documents is the date of submission. 2. Pay the Total Penalty by using one of the following methods: **Include your Inspection Number (see first page) on the payment.** ___ / ___ Pay Online: Search “OSHA” on Pay by Check: Mail check or www.pay.gov and complete the money order payable to “OSHA Penalty Payment Form.” Pay by “DOL-OSHA” for the Total debit, credit or Automated Clearing Penalty to the OSHA office House (ACH) within 15 working days. listed on the first page Penalties over $25,000 must be paid within 15 working days. by ACH and require a Transaction ID (Call 202-693-2170 to obtain one). Option #3 – Contest the Citation I will complete by: Mail a letter of intent to legally contest to the OSHA office listed on the first page, postmarked within 15 working days. ___ / ___ U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration 8505 W. 183rd Street Suite C Tinley Park, IL 60487 Citation and Notification of Penalty To: Inspection Number: 1782356 Fino Exterior Inc. Inspection Date(s): 10/16/2024 - 10/25/2024 and its successors Issuance Date: 12/02/2024 1118 Pheasant Ridge Drive Lake Zurich, IL 60047 Inspection Site: The violation(s) described in this Citation and 25217 Balmoral Dr. Notification of Penalty is (are) alleged to have Shorewood, IL 60435 occurred on or about the day(s) the inspection was made unless otherwise indicated within the description given below. This Citation and Notification of Penalty (this Citation) describes violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The penalty(ies) listed herein is (are) based on these violations. You must abate the violations referred to in this Citation by the dates listed and pay the penalties proposed, unless within 15 working days (excluding weekends and Federal holidays) from your receipt of this Citation and Notification of Penalty you either call to schedule an informal conference (see paragraph below) or you mail a notice of contest to the U.S. Department of Labor Area Office at the address shown above. Please refer to the enclosed booklet (OSHA 3000) which outlines your rights and responsibilities and which should be read in conjunction with this form. Issuance of this Citation does not constitute a finding that a violation of the Act has occurred unless there is a failure to contest as provided for in the Act or, if contested, unless this Citation is affirmed by the Review Commission or a court. Posting - The law requires that a copy of this Citation and Notification of Penalty be posted immediately in a prominent place at or near the location of the violation(s) cited herein, or, if it is not practicable because of the nature of the employer's operations, where it will be readily observable by all affected employees. This Citation must remain posted until the violation(s) cited herein has (have) been abated, or for 3 working days (excluding weekends and Federal holidays), whichever is longer. Informal Conference - An informal conference is not required. However, if you wish to have such a conference you may request one with the Area Director during the 15 working day contest period by calling (708) 342-2840. During such an informal conference, you may present any evidence or views which you believe would support an adjustment to the citation(s) and/or penalty(ies). If you are considering a request for an informal conference to discuss any issues related to this Citation and Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 1 OSHA-2 Notification of Penalty, you must take care to schedule it early enough to allow time to contest after the informal conference, should you decide to do so. Please keep in mind that a written letter of intent to contest must be submitted to the Area Director within 15 working days of your receipt of this Citation. The running of this contest period is not interrupted by an informal conference. If you decide to request an informal conference, please complete, remove and post the Notice to Employees next to this Citation and Notification of Penalty as soon as the time, date, and place of the informal conference have been determined. Be sure to bring to the conference any and all supporting documentation of existing conditions as well as any abatement steps taken thus far. If conditions warrant, we can enter into an informal settlement agreement which amicably resolves this matter without litigation or contest. Right to Contest – You have the right to contest this Citation and Notification of Penalty. You may contest all citation items or only individual items. You may also contest proposed penalties and/or abatement dates without contesting the underlying violations. Unless you inform the Area Director in writing that you intend to contest the citation(s) and/or proposed penalty(ies) within 15 working days after receipt, the citation(s) and the proposed penalty(ies) will become a final order of the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission and may not be reviewed by any court or agency. Penalty Payment – Penalties are due within 15 working days of receipt of this notification unless contested. (See the enclosed booklet and the additional information provided related to the Debt Collection Act of 1982.) Make your check or money order payable to “DOL-OSHA”. Please indicate the Inspection Number on the remittance. You can also make your payment electronically at www.pay.gov. At the top of the pay.gov homepage, type "OSHA" in the Search field and select Search. From OSHA Penalty Payment Form search result, select Continue. The direct link is: https://www.pay.gov/paygov/forms/formInstance.html?agencyFormId=53090334 You will be required to enter your inspection number when making the payment. Payments can be made by credit card or Automated Clearing House (ACH) using your banking information. Payments of $25,000 or more require a Transaction ID, and also must be paid using ACH. If you require a Transaction ID, please contact the OSHA Debt Collection Team at (202) 693-2170. OSHA does not agree to any restrictions or conditions or endorsements put on any check, money order, or electronic payment for less than the full amount due, and will process the payments as if these restrictions or conditions do not exist. Notification of Corrective Action – For each violation which you do not contest, you must provide abatement certification to the Area Director of the OSHA office issuing the citation and identified above. This abatement certification is to be provided by letter within 10 calendar days after each abatement date. Abatement certification includes the date and method of abatement. If the citation indicates that the violation was corrected during the inspection, no abatement certification is required for that item. The abatement certification letter must be posted at the location where the violation appeared and the corrective action took place or employees must otherwise be effectively informed about abatement activities. A sample abatement certification letter is enclosed with this Citation. In addition, where the citation indicates that abatement documentation is necessary, evidence of the purchase or repair of equipment, photographs or video, receipts, training records, etc., verifying that abatement has occurred is required to be provided to the Area Director. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 2 OSHA-2 Employer Discrimination Unlawful – The law prohibits discrimination by an employer against an employee for filing a complaint or for exercising any rights under this Act. An employee who believes that he/she has been discriminated against may file a complaint no later than 30 days after the discrimination occurred with the U.S. Department of Labor Area Office at the address shown above. Employer Rights and Responsibilities – The enclosed booklet (OSHA 3000) outlines additional employer rights and responsibilities and should be read in conjunction with this notification. Notice to Employees – The law gives an employee or his/her representative the opportunity to object to any abatement date set for a violation if he/she believes the date to be unreasonable. The contest must be mailed to the U.S. Department of Labor Area Office at the address shown above and postmarked within 15 working days (excluding weekends and Federal holidays) of the receipt by the employer of this Citation and Notification of Penalty. Inspection Activity Data – You should be aware that OSHA publishes information on its inspection and citation activity on the Internet under the provisions of the Electronic Freedom of Information Act. The information related to these alleged violations will be posted when our system indicates that you have received this citation. You are encouraged to review the information concerning your establishment at www.osha.gov. If you have any dispute with the accuracy of the information displayed, please contact this office. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 3 OSHA-2 U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration NOTICE TO EMPLOYEES OF INFORMAL CONFERENCE An informal conference has been scheduled with OSHA to discuss the citation(s) issued on 12/02/2024. The conference will be held by telephone or at the OSHA office located at 8505 W. 183rd Street, Suite C, Tinley Park, IL 60487 on _________________ at _________________. Employees and/or representatives of employees have a right to attend an informal conference. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 4 OSHA-2 CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET Inspection Number: 1782356 Company Name: Fino Exterior Inc. Inspection Site: 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, IL 60435 Issuance Date: 12/02/2024 List the specific method of correction for each item on this citation in this package that does not read “Corrected During Inspection” and return to: U.S. Department of Labor – Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 8505 W. 183rd Street, Suite C, Tinley Park, IL 60487. Citation Number _____ and Item Number _____ was corrected on __________________________________ By (Method of Abatement): _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Citation Number _____ and Item Number _____ was corrected on __________________________________ By (Method of Abatement): _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Citation Number _____ and Item Number _____ was corrected on __________________________________ By (Method of Abatement): _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Citation Number _____ and Item Number _____ was corrected on __________________________________ By (Method of Abatement): _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Citation Number _____ and Item Number _____ was corrected on __________________________________ By (Method of Abatement): _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ Citation Number _____ and Item Number _____ was corrected on __________________________________ By (Method of Abatement): _________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ I certify that the information contained in this document is accurate and that the affected employees and their representatives have been informed of the abatement. ________________________________ ________________________________ Signature Date ________________________________ ________________________________ Typed or Printed Name Title NOTE: 29 USC 666(g) whoever knowingly makes any false statements, representation or certification in any application, record, plan or other documents filed or required to be maintained pursuant to the Act shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than $10,000 or by imprisonment of not more than 6 months or both. POSTING: A copy of completed Corrective Action Worksheet should be posted for employee review. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 5 OSHA-2 U.S. Department of Labor Inspection Number: 1782356 Occupational Safety and Health Administration Inspection Date(s): 10/16/2024 - 10/25/2024 Issuance Date: 12/02/2024 Citation and Notification of Penalty Company Name: Fino Exterior Inc. Inspection Site: 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, IL 60435 Citation 1 Item 1 Type of Violation: Serious 29 CFR 1926.100(a): Employees working in areas where there was a possible danger of head injury from impact, or falling or flying objects, or from electrical shock and burns, were not protected by protective helmets: a. On or about October 16, 2024, at the jobsite located at 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, Illinois, an employee was not wearing protective helmet where there was a possible danger of head injury from falling objects while engaged in roof loading activities. "In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(c), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET)." ABATEMENT DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED FOR THIS ITEM Date By Which Violation Must be Abated: December 12, 2024 Proposed Penalty: $6,084.00 See pages 1 through 4 of this Citation and Notification of Penalty for information on employer and employee rights and responsibilities. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 6 OSHA-2 U.S. Department of Labor Inspection Number: 1782356 Occupational Safety and Health Administration Inspection Date(s): 10/16/2024 - 10/25/2024 Issuance Date: 12/02/2024 Citation and Notification of Penalty Company Name: Fino Exterior Inc. Inspection Site: 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, IL 60435 Citation 2 Item 1 Type of Violation: Repeat - Serious 29 CFR 1926.501(b)(13): Each employee(s) engaged in residential construction activities 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels were not protected by guardrail systems, safety net system, or personal fall arrest system, nor were employee(s) provided with an alternative fall protection measure under another provision of paragraph 1926.501 (b): a. On or about October 16, 2024, at the jobsite located at 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, Illinois, employees engaged in roofing activities were not protected from fall hazards while working at an elevation of approximately nine (9) feet seven (7) inches, above the ground, thereby exposing employees to fall hazards. b. On or about October 16, 2024, at the jobsite located at 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, Illinois, employees engaged in roofing activities were not protected from fall hazards while working at an elevation of approximately twenty (20) feet two (2) inches above the ground, thereby exposing the employees to fall hazards. Fino Exterior, Inc. was previously cited for a violation of this occupational safety and health standard 29 CFR 1926.501 (b)(13), which was contained in OSHA inspection number 1726952, citation number 2, item number 1 and was affirmed as a final order on April 15, 2024, with respect to a workplace located at 1544 N. Haven Drive, Palatine, IL 60038. Fino Exterior, Inc., was previously cited for a violation of this occupational safety and health standard 29 CFR 1926.501 (b)(13) which was contained in OSHA inspection number 1687819, citation 2, item 1, and was affirmed as a final order on January 8, 2024, with respect to a worksite located at 711 E. Crestwood Drive, Arlington Heights, Illinois. See pages 1 through 4 of this Citation and Notification of Penalty for information on employer and employee rights and responsibilities. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 7 OSHA-2 U.S. Department of Labor Inspection Number: 1782356 Occupational Safety and Health Administration Inspection Date(s): 10/16/2024 - 10/25/2024 Issuance Date: 12/02/2024 Citation and Notification of Penalty Company Name: Fino Exterior Inc. Inspection Site: 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, IL 60435 Fino Exterior, Inc., was previously cited for a violation of this occupational safety and health equivalent standard 29 CFR 1926.501 (b)(11) which was contained in OSHA inspection number 1666504, citation 1, item 1, and was affirmed as a final order on October 25, 2023, with respect to a worksite located at 1190 North Hicks Road, Palatine, Illinois. Fino Exterior, Inc., was previously cited for a violation of this occupational safety and health standard 29 CFR 1926.501 (b)(13) which was contained in OSHA inspection number 1539500, citation 1, item 1, and was affirmed as a final order on November 2, 2021, with respect to a worksite located at 330 N. Ridgeland Ave., Oak Park, Illinois. Date By Which Violation Must be Abated: Corrected During Inspection Proposed Penalty: $70,976.00 See pages 1 through 4 of this Citation and Notification of Penalty for information on employer and employee rights and responsibilities. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 8 OSHA-2 U.S. Department of Labor Inspection Number: 1782356 Occupational Safety and Health Administration Inspection Date(s): 10/16/2024 - 10/25/2024 Issuance Date: 12/02/2024 Citation and Notification of Penalty Company Name: Fino Exterior Inc. Inspection Site: 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, IL 60435 Citation 2 Item 2 Type of Violation: Repeat - Serious 29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(22): Employees using ladders were carrying objects or loads that could cause them to lose balance and fall:(a) a. On or about October 16, 2024, at the jobsite located at 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, Illinois, employees were carrying roof shingles up the ladder, thereby exposing the employees to hazards associated with falls. Fino Exterior Inc. was previously cited for a violation of this occupational safety and health standard 29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(22) previously cited standard), which was contained in OSHA inspection number 16878919, citation number 1, item number 1 and was affirmed as a final order on October 25, 2023, with respect to a workplace located at 711 E Crestwood Drive Arlington Heights, IL 60004. ABATEMENT DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED FOR THIS ITEM Date By Which Violation Must be Abated: December 06, 2024 Proposed Penalty: $12,169.00 See pages 1 through 4 of this Citation and Notification of Penalty for information on employer and employee rights and responsibilities. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 9 OSHA-2 U.S. Department of Labor Inspection Number: 1782356 Occupational Safety and Health Administration Inspection Date(s): 10/16/2024 - 10/25/2024 Issuance Date: 12/02/2024 Citation and Notification of Penalty Company Name: Fino Exterior Inc. Inspection Site: 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, IL 60435 Citation 3 Item 1 Type of Violation: Other-than-Serious 29 CFR 1926.503(b)(1): The employer did not verify compliance with paragraph (a) of this section by preparing a written (training) certification record including the name or other identity of the employee trained, the date(s) of the training, and the signature of the person who conducted the training or the signature of the employer. a. On or about October 16, 2024, at the jobsite located at 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, Illinois, the employer did not maintain records or certification of fall protection training for employees exposed to fall hazards. In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(c), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET) ABATEMENT DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED FOR THIS ITEM Date By Which Violation Must be Abated: January 21, 2025 Proposed Penalty: $0.00 ______________________________ James Martineck Area Director ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ See pages 1 through 4 of this Citation and Notification of Penalty for information on employer and employee rights and responsibilities. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 10 OSHA-2 U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration 8505 W. 183rd Street, Suite C Tinley Park, IL 60487 INVOICE / DEBT COLLECTION NOTICE Company Name: Fino Exterior Inc. Inspection Site: 25217 Balmoral Dr., Shorewood, IL 60435 Issuance Date: 12/02/2024 Summary of Penalties for Inspection Number: 1782356 Citation 1 Item 1, Serious $6,084.00 Citation 2 Item 1, Repeat - Serious $70,976.00 Citation 2 Item 2, Repeat - Serious $12,169.00 Citation 3 Item 1, Other-than-Serious $0.00 TOTAL PROPOSED PENALTIES: $89,229.00 To avoid additional charges, please remit payment promptly to this Area Office for the total amount of the uncontested penalties summarized above. Make your check or money order payable to: "DOL-OSHA". Please indicate OSHA's Inspection Number (indicated above) on the remittance. You can also make your payment electronically at www.pay.gov. At the top of the pay.gov homepage, type “OSHA” in the Search field and select Search. From the OSHA Penalty Payment Form search result, select Continue. The direct link is: https://www.pay.gov/paygov/forms/formInstance.html?agencyFormId=53090334. You will be required to enter your inspection number when making the payment. Payments can be made by credit card or Automated Clearing House (ACH) using your banking information. Payments of $25,000 or more require a Transaction ID, and also must be paid using ACH. If you require a Transaction ID, please contact the OSHA Debt Collection Team at (202) 693-2170. OSHA does not agree to any restrictions or conditions or endorsements put on any check, money order, or electronic payment for less than the full amount due, and will cash the check or money order as if these restrictions or conditions do not exist. If a personal check is issued, it will be converted into an electronic fund transfer (EFT). This means that our bank will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will then usually occur within 24 hours and will be shown on your regular account statement. You will not receive your original check back. The bank will destroy your original check, but will keep a copy of it. If the EFT cannot be completed because of insufficient funds or closed account, the bank will attempt to make the transfer up to two times. Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 11 OSHA-2 Pursuant to the Debt Collection Act of 1982 (Public Law 97-365) and regulations of the U.S. Department of Labor (29 CFR Part 20), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration is required to assess interest, delinquent charges, and administrative costs for the collection of delinquent penalty debts for violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Interest: Interest charges will be assessed at an annual rate determined by the Secretary of the Treasury on all penalty debt amounts not paid within one month (30 calendar days) of the date on which the debt amount becomes due and payable (penalty due date). The current interest rate is one percent (1%). Interest will accrue from the date on which the penalty amounts (as proposed or adjusted) become a final order of the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (that is, 15 working days from your receipt of the Citation and Notification of Penalty), unless you file a notice of contest. Interest charges will be waived if the full amount owed is paid within 30 calendar days of the final order. Delinquent Charges: A debt is considered delinquent if it has not been paid within one month (30 calendar days) of the penalty due date or if a satisfactory payment arrangement has not been made. If the debt remains delinquent for more than 90 calendar days, a delinquent charge of six percent (6%) per annum will be assessed accruing from the date that the debt became delinquent. Administrative Costs: Agencies of the Department of Labor are required to assess additional charges for the recovery of delinquent debts. These additional charges are administrative costs incurred by the Agency in its attempt to collect an unpaid debt. Administrative costs will be assessed for demand letters sent in an attempt to collect the unpaid debt. _________________________________________ ___1_2_/_2_/_2_0_2_4________________ James Martineck Date Area Director Citation and Notification of Penalty Page 12 OSHA-2

"Fino Exterior's blatant disregard for its employees' safety is a callous invitation to tragedy," explained OSHA Chicago South Area Director James Martineck in Tinley Park, Illinois. "All too often, our inspectors find construction contractors violating regulations repeatedly in their misguided belief that their workers will not fall victim to serious injuries or worse."

In addition to a lack of fall protection, OSHA cited Fino Exterior for the following violations:

• Permitting employees to work near energized power lines.
• Not providing employees with required hard hats.
• Failing to train workers in fall protection hazards and prevention.
• Lack of eye protection for workers operating pneumatic nail guns.
• Improper use of ladders.

"A worker can lose their footing and fall off a roof in seconds," Martineck added. "Falls from elevation can cause life-altering and deadly injuries all of which can be prevented by using required protective equipment and training workers in its use. Employers who ignore their obligations are putting their workers' lives and well-being in serious risk."

The 2024 infractions continue a series of similar citations issued after six inspections since 2020 and two others issued under a previous operating name, Arellano Roofing Corp. Fino Exteriors Inc. is currently liable for $65,115 in unpaid OSHA penalties.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 1,069 construction workers died on the job in 2022 and 395 of those deaths were fall-related. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that falls caused about 20,000 worker injuries annuallyData Bulletin W W W. C P W R . C O M MARCH 2024 Fatal and Nonfatal Falls in the U.S THIS ISSUE Construction Industry, 2011-2022 This issue examines fatal and nonfatal falls in the construction industry by major and detailed William Harris, MS, Raina D. Brooks, MPH, Amber Brooke Trueblood, DrPH, subsector, and primary source, as Thomas Yohannes, MPH, Jessica Bunting, MPH1 well as by height of fall, time of day of fall, contracted worker status, and OVERVIEW establishment size for fatal injuries. Among the wide range of hazards construction workers face, the most dangerous are KEY FINDINGS falls. Almost half of all work-related fatal falls, slips, and trips in 2021 occurred among construction workers (46.2%). Since 2013, workers in the industry have suffered over 300 fatal and 20,000 nonfatal fall-related injuries annually. Falls to a lower level, a From 2011 to 2022, the number of Focus Four Hazard, accounted for almost all fatal (95.1%) and half of nonfatal (50.2%) fatal falls to a lower level falls, slips, and trips in 2020. increased 52.7%, while the rate increased 13.3%. The number of nonfatal falls to a lower level This Data Bulletin examines fatal and nonfatal falls in construction by major and detailed increased 2.1% over the same subsector and primary source. It also looks at fatal falls from 2011 to 2022 by fall height, period, while their rate decreased time of day, state, whether the decedent was a contracted worker, and establishment 25.5%. size. Falls were defined in various ways based on data availability, including a) falls Charts 1 and 10 to a lower level, b) all falls (which includes falls to a lower level and falls on the same level) and c) falls, slips, and trips (which includes falls to a lower level, falls to the same In 2022, Roofing Contractors level, and slips and trips without a fall). Fatal injury estimates were generally obtained (NAICS 23816) had the highest from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries number of fatal falls, slips, and (CFOI) public tool. Exceptions are contracted worker, establishment size, and time of trips (n=100) among detailed day (Charts 7 to 9), which were produced with restricted access to BLS CFOI data.2 subsectors examined. Estimates for nonfatal injuries resulting in days away from work (DAFW) among private, Chart 3 wage-and-salary workers were from the BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII) public tool, based on employer logs. Because SOII data changed from annual to biennial estimates in 2021, nonfatal data are shown for two-year periods. Full- From 2021 to 2022, the number of fatal injuries where roofs were time equivalent workers (FTEs) were obtained using the BLS Current Population Survey involved (primary source) rose (CPS), a monthly population survey, downloaded through IPUMS. Fatal injury rates 14.6%. were calculated per 100,000 FTEs, while nonfatal rates were calculated per 10,000 FTEs. Chart 6 From 2011 to 2022, 70% of fatal fall injuries occurred among those working for small establishments (10 or fewer employees). Chart 7 Most fatal falls occurred from 10 a.m. to 12:59 p.m., with an average of 38.3 fatal falls per hour in 2022. Chart 9 NEXT DATA BULLETIN 1 CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training. Correspondence to: datacenter@cpwr.com. Trends of Trenching Injuries in 2 Charts 7-9 were produced using restricted access data. The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not reflect the views of the BLS. Construction, 2011-2022 DATA BULLETIN FALL INJURIES IN CONSTRUCTION M A RC H 2 0 2 4 W W W. C P W R . C O M In 2022, there were 412 fatal falls, slips, and trips in construction, Among the detailed subsectors examined, Roofing Contractors with the majority resulting from falls to a lower level (96.4%, (NAICS 23816) had the highest number of fatal falls, slips, and n=397; chart 1). From 2011 to 2022, the number of these types of trips in 2022 (n=100; chart 3). Numbers were also high among fatal falls increased 53% (53.2% and 52.7%, respectively), while Residential Building Construction (NAICS 23611; n=63) and rates increased 13% (12.9% and 13.3%, respectively). From Commercial and Institutional Building Construction (NAICS 2021 to 2022, the number of fatal falls, slips, and trips increased 23622; n=31). 4.8% (393 to 412) while fatal falls to a lower level increased 4.7% (379 to 397). The rates for fatal falls, slips, and trips and 3. Detailed subsectors with the highest number of fatal falls to a lower level both decreased slightly from 2021 to 2022 falls, slips, and trips, 2022 (3.52 to 3.50 and 3.39 to 3.37 per 100,000 FTEs, respectively). Roofing Contractors (NAICS 23816) 100 1. Number and rate of fatal falls, slips, trips and falls to lower level, 2011-2022 Residential Building Construction Number Rate (NAICS 23611) 63 3.5 4 3.7 3.0 600 Commercial and Institutional Building 3.1 Construction (NAICS 23622) 31 363 367 388 389 418 371 393 412 5 340 0 269 294 30 2 30 Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors (NAICS 23821) 26 0 0 3.4 4 600 Framing contractors (NAICS 23813) 25 3.6 2.8 3.0 353 372 367 401 353 379 397 321 300 260 281 292 347 2 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries. 0 0 Next, fatal falls to a lower level from 2011 to 2018 were Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2011-2022 Census of Fatal Occupational evaluated by fall height (chart 4). A third of these incidents Injuries and 2011-2022 IPUMS Current Population Survey. occurred from heights of 15 feet or less (33.6%), while falls from 16 to 25 feet and 26 feet or higher each accounted for 26.5% of these injuries. Examining detailed height categories, In 2022, Specialty Trade Contractors (NAICS 238) accounted falls from 11 to 15 feet (17.9%), more than 30 feet (17.8%), for 68.9% (n=284) of the 412 fatal falls, slips, and trips, while and 16 to 20 feet (14.7%) accounted for the three largest Construction of Buildings (NAICS 236) accounted for 26.2% proportions of fatal falls to a lower level. This is consistent (n=108) and Heavy and Civil Engineering (NAICS 237) with prior findings in that a majority (83.4%) of fatal falls in accounted for 2.2% (n=9 ; chart 2). From 2011 to 2022, fatal construction occurred from heights greater than 10 feet. falls, slips, and trips doubled in Construction of Buildings (54 to 108) and rose 56.0% in Specialty Trade Contractors (182 to 4. Fatal falls to lower level by fall height among 284). There was a 50.0% decrease in fatal falls, slips, and trips in construction workers, sum of years 2011-2018* Heavy and Civil Engineering during the same period (18 to 9). Fall height – broad 15 ft or less 2. Number of fatal falls, slips, and trips by major subsector, 16-25 ft 2011-2022* 26 or more ft 4.2% Height unspecified 11.5% Construction of Buildings (NAICS 236) Fall height – detailed 13.4% Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction (NAICS 237) Less than 6 ft Specialty Trade Contractors (NAICS 238) 6 to 10 ft 17 11 to 15 ft 17.8% 400 17.9% 15 18 13 9 16 to 20 ft 22 10 23 18 83 21 to 25 ft 80 91 91 108 26 to 30 ft 300 23 22 84 91 More than 30 ft 8.8% 18 89 83 Height unspecified 14.7% 72 64 11.8% 200 54 30 255 283 9 284 249 274 281 Total = 2,593 fatal falls to lower level 100 29 245 182 193 209 2 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2011-2018 Census of Fatal Occupational 0 Injuries. 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 *Due to data availability, years are limited to 2011-2018. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2011-2022 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries. *Totals do not match chart 1 due to missing subsector data. 2 Number of fatal falls, slips, and trips Number of fatal falls Number of fatal falls, to lower level slips, and trips 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Rate per 100,000 Rate per 100,000 FTEs FTEs DATA BULLETIN FALL INJURIES IN CONSTRUCTION M A RC H 2 0 2 4 W W W. C P W R . C O M The U.S. states with the most fatal falls, slips, and trips were All fatal injuries in construction, including all fatal falls analyzed (chart 5). In 2022, Florida (n=46), Texas (n=46), and (whether to a lower level or on the same level) were analyzed by California (n=28)’ had the highest number of these injuries, while establishment size (chart 7). From 2011 to 2022, just over 7 in 10 numerous states had rates (per 100,000 FTEs) higher than the (70.3%, n=2.4 thousand [K]) fatal fall injuries occurred in small national average (3.5), such as Louisiana (7.1), North Carolina establishments (1-10 employees), while 6.7% (n=231) occurred (5.9), and Michigan (5.6). in large establishments (100+ employees). In comparison, small establishments accounted for 57.0% (n=5.4K) of all fatal injuries 5. Number and rate* of fatal falls, slips, and trips in and large establishments 13.3% (n=1.3K). For context, small construction by state, 2022 establishments (1-9 employees) made up 81.3% of construction establishments in 2020 but only 22.0% of employees. 46 Florida 4.9 46 Texas 3.2 7. Fatal falls and all fatal injuries* in construction by 28 California 2.1 establishment size, sum of 2011-2022 26 New York 4.9 24 North Carolina 5.9 Fatal Falls All Fatal Injuries 15 Michigan 5.6 6.7% 13 Georgia 3.4 (n=231) 13..3% 13 Illinois 3.6 14.0% (n=1.,32K92)) (n=483) 13 Tennessee 5.1 2200.0.0%% 12 Louisiana 7.1 9.0% ((nn==11.,99K4)8) Number of fatal falls, slips, and Rate per 100,000 FTEs (n=311) trips 57.0% Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries 70.3% (n=5.4K) (n=2.4K) 9.7% and 2022 IPUMS Current Population Survey. (n=939) *Rates which were higher than the national average (3.5 per 100,000 FTEs) in 2022 use a darker shade of orange. 1-10 employees 11-19 employees 20-99 employees 100+ employees Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2011-2022 Census of Fatal Occcupational All fatal injuries (not just falls) in construction were then examined by Injuries Restricted Use Data. primary sources (e.g., factor responsible for injury) common to falls, *Chart only shows injuries with reported data. slips, and trips (chart 6). From 2021 to 2022, the number of injuries involving roofs increased 14.6% (144 to 165), while injuries due to Next, all fatal falls and fatal injuries for contracted workers were scaffolds and staging rose 4.1% (49 to 51). In contrast, injuries due to examined (chart 8). A contracted worker is defined as someone ladders decreased 12.6% from 2021 to 2022 (103 to 90). employed by one firm but working under the direction of another firm that exercises overall responsibility for operations at the site 6. Injury sources* common to fatal falls, slips and trips, of the fatal injury. Almost two thirds (62.7%; n=2.3K) of fatal 2021 versus 2022 falls from 2011 to 2022 occurred among contracted workers. When looking at all injuries, contracted workers accounted for 2021 2022 52.0% (n=5.1K) of all fatal injuries in construction. Ladders 103 8. Proportion of fatal fall and all fatal injuries* among 90 contracted workers^, sum of 2011-2022 Roofs 144 Fall Injuries All Fatal Injuries 165 7.3% 5.8% (n=266) (n=573) Scaffolds / staging 49 51 30.0% 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 (n=1.1K) Number of fatal injuries 42.2% 52.0% (n=4.2K) (n=5.1K) 62.7% Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021-2022 Census of Fatal Occupational (n=2.3K) Injuries and 2021-2022 IPUMS Current Population Survey. *All injuries shown. Sources shown commonly result in falls, slips, and trips (>=50% Yes No Unknown of primary source injuries). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2011-2022 Census of Fatal Occcupational Injuries Restricted Use Data. *Chart only shows injuries with reported data. ^Indicates if a worker was employed by a firm working under another firm that has overall responsibility for the operations at the work site. 3 DATA BULLETIN FALL INJURIES IN CONSTRUCTION M A RC H 2 0 2 4 W W W. C P W R . C O M Fatal falls were also examined by the time of day (chart 9). The Specialty Trade Contractors accounted for approximately 70% chart shows the average number of annual fatal falls during each of nonfatal falls to a lower level (69.8%; chart 11) from 2011 to part of the day from 2011 to 2022. Across all years, the period 2022. The number of nonfatal falls to a lower level decreased with the largest number of fatal falls per hour was 10 a.m. to 12:59 29.5% in Construction of Buildings (6.1K to 4.3K), 21.7% in p.m., with 38.3 fatal falls on average for each hour in 2022 during Heavy and Civil Engineering (2.3K to 1.8K), and 17.4% in that period. This is consistent with a prior study that found half of Specialty Trade Contractors (16.1K to 13.3K) from 2019-2020 to construction worker fatalities occurred from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 2021-2022. Falls, slips, and trips also decreased for Construction of Buildings and Heavy and Civil Engineering, but increased 9. Average number of fatal falls* per hour by time of 1.3% for Specialty Trade Contractors (30.9K to 31.3K). incident, 2011-2022 11. Number of nonfatal falls, slips, trips and falls to lower 40 38.3 level by major subsector, 2011-2022* 35 Construction of Buildings (NAICS 236) Heavy and Civil Engineering (NAICS 237) 30 Specialty Trade Contractors (NAICS 238) 26.3 60K 25 23.0 4.6K 4.4K 4.7K 5.4K 4.3K 40K 3.8K 9.5K 20 22.0 16.8 9.6K 9.8K 10.7K 8.3K 8.4K 15 20K 14.8 Time 6 a.m.-9:59 a.m. 26.7K 30.2K 34.5K 31.7K 30.9K 31.3K 10 10 a.m.-12:59 p.m. 1 p.m.-5:59 p.m. 0K 5 6 p.m.-5:59 a.m. 28K 0.8 1.3K 1.4K 2.3K 0 1.6 21K 1.4K 1.5K 4.4K 1.8K 5.9K 6.1K 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 14K 4.6K 3.9K 4.3K Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2011-2022 Census of Fatal Occcupational Injuries Restricted Use Data. 7K 14.2K 17.6K 13.0K 15.6K 16.1K 13.3K *Chart only shows injuries with reported data. 0K 2011-2012 2013-2014 2015-2016 2017-2018 2019-2020 2021-2022 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2011-2022 Survey of Occupational Injuries and An examination of nonfatal falls (chart 10) found that, compared Illnesses. to 2011-2012, the number of falls, slips, and trips in 2021-2022 *Sum is shown for each two-year period to produce comparable statistics following BLS increased 13.1% (38.9K to 44.0K), while the rate per 10,000 FTEs data change to biennial estimates for 2021-2022. decreased 17.8% (31.4 to 25.8). The number of falls to a lower level between the two periods increased 2.1% (2011-2012:19.0K and 2021-2022:19.4K), while the rate decreased 25.5% (2011- Injury sources common to nonfatal falls, slips, and trips 2012:15.3 and 2021-2022:11.4). In the two most recent periods, were analyzed, comparing 2019-2020 to 2021-2022 (chart the number of nonfatal falls, slips, and trips decreased 6.4% (2019- 12). Injuries where roofs were the primary source increased 2020: 47.0K and 2021-2022: 44.0K), while the rate per 10,000 16.7% (2.4K to 2.8K), with decreases for injuries in which FTEs decreased 10.1% (28.7 to 25.8). Between the two time ladders (-16.5%, 13.9K to 11.6K), scaffolds/staging (-24.2%, periods, falls to a lower level decreased 21.1% (2019-2020: 24.6K 3.3K to 2.5K), and floors, walkways, and ground surfaces and 2021-2022:19.4K), while the rate decreased 24.0% (2019- (-6.8%, 14.7K to 13.7K) were the primary source. 2020:15.0 to 2021-2022:11.4). 12. Injury sources* common to falls, slips and trips, 2019- 2020 versus 2021-2022^ 10. Number and rate of nonfatal falls, slips, trips and falls to lower level, 2011-2022* 2019-2020 2021-2022 Floors, walkways, ground surfaces 14.7K Number Rate 13.7K 32.6 40 60K 31.4 28.7 Ladders 13.9K 25.8 30 11.6K 40K 38.9K 44.2K 47.0K 44.0K 20 Scaffolds, staging 3.3K 20K 10 2.5K 0K 0 Roofs 2.4K 40K 20 2.8K 15.0 30K 15.3 14.4 11.4 15 0K 2K 4K 6K 8K 10K 12K 14K 16K Number of nonfatal injuries 20K 24.6K 10 19.0K 19.5K 19.4K 10K 5 Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019-2022 Survey of Occupational Injuries 0K 0 and Illnesses. 2011-2012 2013-2014 2015-2016 2017-2018 2019-2020 2021-2022 *All injuries shown. Sources shown commonly result in falls, slips, and trips (>=50% of primary source injuries). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2011-2022 Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses and 2011-2022 IPUMS Current Population Survey. ^Sum is shown for 2019-2020 to produce comparable statistics following BLS data change to biennial estimates for 2021-2022. *Sum is shown for each two-year period to produce comparable statistics following BLS data change to biennial estimates for 2021-2022. 4 Number of nonfatal Number of nonfatal Average annual fatal falls per hour falls to lower level falls, slips, trips Rate per 10,000 FTEs Rate per 10,000 FTEs Number of nonfatal falls Number of nonfatal falls, to lower level slips, and trips DATA BULLETIN FALL INJURIES IN CONSTRUCTION M A RC H 2 0 2 4 W W W. C P W R . C O M Falls are a significant hazard to construction workers. A sustained DEFINITIONS increase in fatal falls since 2020 has brought their numbers to pre-pandemic levels. During 2021-2022, however, the number • Contracted worker – indicates if a worker was employed of nonfatal falls decreased. There have also been changes in the by a firm working under another firm that has overall frequency of sources common to falls, with ladders accounting responsibility for the operations at the work site. A more for fewer fatal and nonfatal injuries while the number associated detailed definition can be found in this 2011 report from with roofs has risen. CFOI. The burden of falls is not shared equally among construction • Days away from work (DAFW) – nonfatal injury cases workers. There were several states with higher rates of fatal resulting in at least one day away from work beyond falls than the national average in 2022, and roofers continue to the day of injury or illness onset. A full definition with account for a large number of fatal falls. Small establishments an example can be found in the Survey of Occupational and contracted workers also accounted for a majority of fatal falls Injuries and Illnesses Handbook of Methods. from 2011 to 2022. These findings highlight the need for new, • Detailed subsector – 5-digit NAICS codes within innovative approaches to reaching small employers and workers construction. who may be vulnerable due to poor working arrangements and lack of access to safety resources. • Establishment size – the number of employees working for employer. The most important thing to remember in the face of such high fatal injury rates is that falls are preventable. The National • Falls – defined using the Occupational Injury and Illness Campaign to Prevent Falls in Construction and annual Safety Classification Manual using variety of definitions based on Stand-Down event target fall safety in construction, encouraging data availability, including: employers to: PLAN ahead to prevent falls on the job, PROVIDE a) Falls to a lower level (OIICS code 43) – includes the right tools and equipment for the job, and TRAIN employees falls where the injury was produced by impact of on fall prevention equipment, work practices, and rescue. The the person and another surface of lower elevation. PLAN piece is especially important since many decisions, such as access equipment (e.g., ladders, scaffolding, motorized lifts), b) All falls – includes falls to a lower level and falls work organization/methods, and personal protective equipment on same level. (PPE) selection and purchase, are made before the job begins. ◦ Falls to a lower level (OIICS code 43) CPWR’s Survey on Underlying Causes of Falls from Heights ◦ Falls on same level (OIICS code 42) – identified insufficient or ineffective planning as the primary includes falls where the injury was produced cause of falls from heights. A lack of preparation can lead to a by the impact of the person and another reliance on PPE as the only protective measure, but the survey surface without elevation. also found that when employers didn’t do any planning, the odds of workers using their PPE were 71% lower. Learn more about c) Falls, slips, and trips (OIICS code 4) – includes planning for fall prevention, fall protection, and fall rescue by falls on the same level, falls and jumps to lower accessing these free templates and checklists. levels, falls, and jumps that were curtailed by a personal arrest device, and slips and trips without NIOSH and OSHA have also developed materials to address falls a fall. and Spanish-language resources from CPWR, NIOSH, OSHA • Full-time equivalent workers (FTEs) – determined by the and others can be found on this page. hours worked per employee on a full-time basis, defined as working 2,000 hours (40 hours x 50 weeks) per year. ACCESS THE CHARTS & MORE • Major subsector – 3-digit NAICS codes within construction including Construction of Buildings (NAICS 236), Heavy View the charts in PowerPoint and the data underlying the and Civil Engineering (NAICS 237), and Specialty Trade charts in Excel. Downloading will start when you click on Contractors (NAICS 238). each link. These files can also be found under the Data Bulletin at: https://www.cpwr.com/research/data-center/ • Primary source – the objects, substances, equipment, data-reports/. See our updated Construction Focus Four and other factors that were responsible for the injury or and Falls, Slips and Trips in Construction dashboards. illness incurred by the worker. For example, a worker who was climbing up a ladder when they slipped and fell would have a reported primary source of, “Ladders.” Full definitions of primary source categories can be found in the Occupational Injury and Illness Classification Manual. ◦ Sources common to falls, slips, and trips – primary sources for which more than 50% of all injuries were due to falls, slips, and trips. 5 DATA BULLETIN FALL INJURIES IN CONSTRUCTION M A RC H 2 0 2 4 W W W. C P W R . C O M • Rates – calculated by dividing the count of injuries by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. [2020]. number of full-time equivalents for the time period then Directory of Construction Resources. https://www.cdc.gov/ multiplying by 100,000 for fatal and 10,000 for nonfatal niosh/construction/default.html. injuries. When multiple years are reported the injuries and Occupational Safety and Health Administration. [n.d.]. populations were summed first. Construction Industry. https://www.osha.gov/construction. DATA SOURCES U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. [2023]. Construction Deaths Due to Falls, Slips, and Trips Increased 5.9 Percent in 2021. https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2023/construction-deaths-due- Sarah Flood, Miriam King, Renae Rodgers, Steven Ruggles, to-falls-slips-and-trips-increased-5-9-percent-in-2021.htm. J. Robert Warren, and Michael Westberry. Integrated Public Use Microdata Series, 2011-2021 Current Population Survey: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. [2017]. Fatal Occupational Version 9.0 [dataset]. Minneapolis, MN: IPUMS, 2022. Injuries to Contracted Workers. https://www.bls.gov/ https://doi.org/10.18128/D030.V9.0. iif/factsheets/archive/fatal-occupational-injuries- contractors-2011-2015.htm. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2011-2022 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI) Public and Restricted Use U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. [2012]. Occupational Injury Data. https://www.bls.gov/iif/. and Illness Classification Manual. https://wwwn.cdc.gov/ Wisards/oiics/Doc/OIICS%20Manual%202012%20v201.pdf. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2011-2022 Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. [2023]. Survey of https://www.bls.gov/iif/. Occupational Injuries and Illnesses Handbook of Methods. https://www.bls.gov/opub/hom/soii/pdf/soii.pdf. REFERENCES Bartlet, G., Greenberg, R., & Bunting, J. [2022]. Highlighted Findings from a CPWR Survey on Underlying Causes of Falls from Heights. https://www.cpwr.com/wp-content/uploads/RR- falls_experience_survey.pdf. CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training. [2023]. Falls, Slips, and Trips in Construction [dashboard. https://www.cpwr.com/research/data-center/data-dashboards/ falls-slips-and-trips-in-construction/. CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training. [2023]. Fatal and Nonfatal Focus Four Injuries in Construction. https://www.cpwr.com/wp-content/uploads/ DataBulletin-March2023.pdf. CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training. [n.d.]. Hazard-Specific Resources & Training Tools. https://www.cpwr.com/research/research-to-practice-r2p/ r2p-library/other-resources-for-stakeholders/hazard-specific- resources/. CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training. [n.d.]. Lista de recursos en español. https://www.cpwr.com/ spanish-language-resources/. CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training. [n.d.]. Stop Construction Falls. https://stopconstructionfalls.com/. Kleiner, B. M., & Zhao, D. [2017]. Preventing Fatalities in the Construction Industry. The Associated General Contractors of America. https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/ Safety%20%26%20Health/AGC-VT%20Fatality%20 Report%20%5BFinal%5D_0.pdf. 6 DATA BULLETIN FALL INJURIES IN CONSTRUCTION M A RC H 2 0 2 4 W W W. C P W R . C O M ABOUT THE CPWR DATA CENTER Besides cpwr.com, visit CPWR’s other online resources to help reduce construction safety and health hazards: The CPWR Data Center is part of CPWR–The Center for Construction Research and Training. CPWR is a 501(c)(3) • Choose Hand Safety nonprofit research and training institution created by NABTU, https://choosehandsafety.org/ and serves as its research arm. CPWR has focused on • Construction Safety and Health Network construction safety and health research since 1990. The Data https://safeconstructionnetwork.org/ Bulletin, a series of publications analyzing construction-related data, is part of our ongoing surveillance project funded by the • Construction Solutions National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). https://www.cpwrconstructionsolutions.org/ • Construction Solutions ROI Calculator https://www.safecalc.org/ • COVID-19 Construction Clearinghouse https://covid.elcosh.org/index.php • COVID-19 Exposure Control Planning Tool https://www.covidcpwr.org • Electronic Library of Construction Occupational Safety and Health https://www.elcosh.org/index.php • eLCOSH Nano https://nano.elcosh.org/ • Exposure Control Database https://ecd.cpwrconstructionsolutions.org/ • Nano Safety Data Sheet Improvement Tool https://nanosds.elcosh.org/ • Safety Climate - Safety Management Information System (SC-SMIS) www.scsmis.com • Stop Construction Falls https://stopconstructionfalls.com/ • Work Safely with Silica https://www.silica-safe.org/ ©2024, CPWR–The Center for Construction Research and Training. All rights reserved. CPWR is the research and training arm of NABTU. Production of this document was supported by cooperative 8484 Georgia Avenue Suite 1000 agreement OH 009762 from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The contents are Silver Spring, MD 20910 solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of NIOSH. www.cpwr.com 7 between 2013 and 2022.

OSHA's stop falls website offers safety information and video presentations in English and Spanish to teach workers about fall hazards and proper safety procedures. The agency also offers compliance assistance resources on Protecting Roofing WorkersProtecting Roofing Workers OSHA 3755-05 2015 Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 “To assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act; by assisting and encouraging the States in their efforts to assure safe and healthful working conditions; by providing for research, information, education, and training in the field of occupational safety and health...” This publication provides a general overview of worker rights under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act). This publication does not alter or determine compliance responsibilities which are set forth in OSHA standards and the OSH Act. Moreover, because interpretations and enforcement policy may change over time, for additional guidance on OSHA compliance requirements the reader should consult current administrative interpretations and decisions by the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission and the courts. Material contained in this publication is in the public domain and may be reproduced, fully or partially, without permission. Source credit is requested but not required. This information will be made available to sensory-impaired individuals upon request. Voice phone: (202) 693-1999; teletypewriter (TTY) number: 1-877-889-5627. Cover photo courtesy of the National Roofing Contractors Association. Protecting Roofing Workers U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration OSHA 3755-05 2015 Disclaimer This guidance document is not a standard or regulation and it creates no new legal obligations. The document is advisory in nature, informational in content, and is intended to assist employers in providing a safe and healthful workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Act requires employers to comply with safety and health standards promulgated by OSHA or by a state with an OSHA-approved state plan. In addition, the Act’s Section 5(a)(1), the General Duty Clause, requires employers to provide their workers with a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm. Employers can be cited for violating the General Duty Clause if there is a recognized hazard and they do not take reasonable steps to prevent or abate the hazard. However, failure to implement any specific recommendations contained within this document is not, in itself, a violation of the General Duty Clause. Citations can only be based on standards, regulations, and the General Duty Clause. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 4 Table of Contents Purpose and Scope of this Guide . . . . . . . . . . 7 Plan, Provide, Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Getting Started with Roofing Safety . . . . . . 9 Fall Protection Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Fall Protection Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 The Requirement to Provide Fall Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Using a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 How to Set Up a Personal Fall Arrest System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Rescue of Workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Using a Fall Restraint System . . . . . . . . . . 15 Using a Guardrail System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Warning Lines and Safety Monitors . . . . . . 16 Covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 All Ladders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Worker Position on a Ladder . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Extension Ladders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Stepladders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Scaffolding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Platform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Guardrails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Falling Object Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Lifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Aerial Lifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 All-Terrain Forklifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Safe Debris Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Electrical Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Integrity of Older Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 5 Roofing Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Built-up Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Torch Applied Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Single-ply Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Roofing Tool Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . 28 Protecting Workers Who Work with Hazardous Substances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Hazard Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Specific Health Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Coordinating with Other Contractors . . . . . 31 Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Emergency Action Plan (EAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Emergency Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 First Aid and Medical Emergencies . . . . . 32 General Duty to Protect Workers from Other Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Heat Illnesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Cold Stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Other Weather Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Workers’ Rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 OSHA Assistance, Services and Programs 35 NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation Program 39 OSHA Regional Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 How to Contact OSHA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 6 Purpose and Scope of this Guide Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry, accounting for over 3,500 fatalities between 2003 and 2013. Falls from roofs accounted for nearly 1,200, or 34%, of the fall deaths during that period. Roofers encounter many hazards on the job, including hazards associated with working at heights and from ladders, power tools, electricity, noise, hazardous substances, and extreme temperatures. Unless these hazards are controlled by the employer, roofers risk serious injury, illness and death. To protect workers on roofing jobs, employers must identify the hazards present and take steps to address them. This guide covers safe practices to prevent falls, other physical injuries, hazardous substance exposures, and injuries and illnesses related to environmental conditions. Below is a table of frequently cited OSHA standards for roofing contractors during FY 2013. OSHA Standards Frequently Cited During FY 2013 Inspections of Roofing Contractors (NAICS 238160) Rank by Number of Citations Issued Categories Standard 1 Duty to have fall protection 1926.501 2 Ladder safety 1926.1053 3 Fall protection training requirements 1926.503 4 Eye and face protection 1926.102 5 General scaffold requirements 1926.451 6 General safety and health provisions 1926.20 7 Head protection 1926.100 8 Fall protection systems criteria and practices 1926.502 PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 7 OSHA Standards Frequently Cited During FY 2013 Inspections of Roofing Contractors (NAICS 238160) Rank by Number of Citations Issued Categories Standard 9 Ladder training requirements 1926.1060 10 Hazard Communication 1926.59 which refers to 1910.1200 Source: NAICS 238160 – Roofing Contractors, October 2012 through September 2013. Plan, Provide, Train Falls can be prevented and lives can be saved through three simple steps: “Plan, Provide and Train.” See OSHA’s Fall Prevention Campaign web page for resources to help prevent falls (www.osha.gov/stopfalls). Here are some basic ideas for developing fall protection strategies for roofing operations. ■ Employers need to “PLAN” ahead to get the job done safely — Employers need to develop a plan and ensure the proper equipment, material and appropriately trained workers are available. ™ Know the pitch of the roof and follow the appropriate standard. — Low slope roof – 4:12 slope or less – 29 CFR 1926.501(b)(10). — Steep roof – above 4:12 slope – 29 CFR 1926.501(b)(11). ■ Employers must “PROVIDE” the right equipment — Employers must provide fall protection and the right equipment for the job, including the right kinds of ladders, scaffolds, and safety gear. ■ Employers must “TRAIN” workers to use the equipment safely — Employers must train workers in hazard recognition and in OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 8 the care and safe use of ladders, scaffolds, fall protection systems, and other equipment they will be using on the job. ™ Understand the requirements of OSHA’s Fall Protection standards at 29 CFR 1926, Subpart M, to protect workers exposed to falls six feet or more above a lower level. ™ Implement safe work practices to reduce the possibility of falls. ™ Supervise workers to ensure fall protection equipment is used and maintained correctly. ™ Lead by example. Employers, project managers, and supervisors should follow the rules they are responsible for enforcing. Need help? Don’t wait. Call your nearest local OSHA area Compliance Assistance Specialist (www.osha.gov/dcsp/compliance_assistance/ cas.html) or Consultation Program office (www.osha.gov/consultation). Getting Started with Roofing Safety All employers in the construction industry must have a safety program. Contractors and employers who perform construction work must comply with standards in 29 CFR 1926, Subpart C, General Safety and Health Provisions, as well as other applicable PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 9 Photo courtesy of ACTA Safety & Peterson Dean Roofing standards. The standards outline employers’ responsibilities for initiating and maintaining a safety program that provides for frequent and regular inspections of job sites, materials, and equipment (29 CFR 1926.20(b)(2)) and for ensuring that workers are trained to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions (29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)). Employers must provide training in a language and in a manner that workers can understand. Fall Protection Requirements Falls are the leading cause of work-related injuries and deaths among roofers. Working six feet or more above lower levels put roofers at risk for serious injury or death if they should fall. A lack of fall protection, damaged fall protection equipment, or improper setup will increase their risk of falling from height. Fall Protection Training Employers must provide fall protection training for all workers who may be exposed to fall hazards. The training must be conducted by a competent person and include information on how to recognize fall hazards and on what procedures to follow to minimize them (29 CFR 1926.503(a)). Training must address how to inspect, erect/disassemble, and maintain the fall protection equipment involved in the work (29 CFR 1926.503(a)(2)(ii)). Retraining is required when previous training becomes obsolete due to changes in work conditions or fall protection systems or equipment. Retraining is also required when worker performance indicates a need for it (29 CFR 1926.503(c)). Employers must certify that workers have been trained by documenting it in accord with 29 CFR 1926.503(b) – Certification of Training. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 1 0 For additional information on what must be included in fall protection training, see 29 CFR 1926.503 – Training Requirements. The Requirement to Provide Fall Protection Using a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) Employers generally must provide fall protection if workers are exposed to a fall of 6 feet or more to a lower level. One form of fall protection is a personal fall arrest system (PFAS). When used properly, these systems will arrest a fall and prevent the worker from contacting a lower level. A PFAS consists of an anchor, a harness, and a lifeline or lanyard (usually with a deceleration device). A PFAS must be used properly to be effective. Adjust the harness to fit snugly. The D-ring attachment for the harness should be centered between the worker’s shoulder blades and the leg straps should be adjusted until they are snug. Fall arrest systems must be designed and set up to prevent a worker from free falling more than 6 feet or contacting a lower level (e.g., the floor or the ground) (29 CFR 1926.502(d)(16)(iii)). Body belts are not acceptable in a PFAS because they can cause serious injury during a fall (29 CFR 1926.502(d)). The anchorage for a fall arrest system must be capable of supporting 5,000 pounds per worker attached or be designed, installed, and used under the supervision of a qualified person, as part of a complete personal fall arrest system that maintains a safety factor of at least two (29 CFR 1926.502(d)(15)). During roofing work, it is important not to attach PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 1 1 anchors to sheathing, single trusses, or most guardrails. These are typically not strong enough to meet OSHA’s standard. Instead of attaching anchors to sheathing alone, attach an anchor to a structural member by driving the fasteners through the sheathing and into the rafter or truss member below. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing anchorage. Employers must ensure that fall arrest equipment subjected to the forces of a fall are taken out of service until it has been inspected by a competent person and determined to be undamaged and suitable for reuse (29 CFR 1926.502(d)(19)). How to Set Up a Personal Fall Arrest System The length of the lifeline or lanyard, the position of the anchor, and the distance to the lower level are all important. Employers need to select equipment that permits workers to operate efficiently while limiting the distance they could fall. Employers must properly calculate the fall clearance distance to ensure that a worker will not contact the lower level in the event of a fall (29 CFR 1926.502(d)(16)(iii)). And employers also need to evaluate the potential for a pendulum effect, which could swing a fallen worker into a nearby object. Swing-fall hazards can cause serious injuries, but they can be minimized by installing the anchorage point above the work area (i.e., up the roof slope from the worker) and setting up a maximum work range from the anchor point according to the manufacturer’s instructions. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 1 2 A personal fall arrest system is designed to safely stop a fall before the worker strikes a lower level. It has three major components: A. An anchorage to which the lanyard’s snap hook is attached. B. A full-body harness worn by the worker. C. A connector, such as a lanyard or lifeline, linking the harness to the anchorage. Personal fall arrest systems typically use a shock-absorbing lanyard, a self-retracting lifeline, or a deceleration device. The total fall distance is the minimum vertical distance between the worker and a lower level that is necessary to ensure that the worker avoids contact with the lower level during a fall. It is important that employers calculate this distance before work begins to ensure that the proper fall protection equipment is selected for the location. To determine the total fall distance, several factors must be taken into consideration: ■ Free fall distance: The distance the worker falls before the PFAS begins to slow the fall. This distance must be 6 feet or less for a PFAS (29 CFR 1926.502(d)(16)(iii)). PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 1 3 ■ Deceleration distance: The distance the lanyard stretches in order to arrest the fall. OSHA requires that this distance be no greater than 3.5 feet (29 CFR 1926.502(d)(16)(iv)), but it may be less for some PFAS equipment. ■ D-ring shift: How far the D-ring shifts and the harness stretches when it supports the full weight of a fallen worker, including the weight of tool belts and other attached equipment or tools. Employers typically assume this shift is 1 foot, but it can vary, depending on the equipment design and the manufacturer. ■ Back D-ring height: The height of the D-ring, measured as the distance between the D-ring and the sole of the worker’s footwear. Employers often use a standard distance of 5 feet for this height, assuming a worker who is 6 feet tall. The D-ring height needs to be adjusted for very tall workers, and for shorter workers as well. ■ Safety margin: An additional distance (typically a minimum of 2 feet) to ensure that there is enough clearance between the worker and the lower level after a fall. The total fall clearance distance can be calculated by adding all of these values together. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 1 4 Rescue of Workers Employers need a plan for rescuing workers in the event of a fall whenever personal fall arrest systems are used. A personal fall arrest system can save a life; however, a medical emergency, such as suspension trauma, can develop if the fallen worker is not rescued quickly. A fallen worker may not be able to reach a safe work surface without assistance. The availability of rescue personnel, ladders or other rescue equipment should be evaluated prior to starting the job. Employers need to ensure supervisors and workers are trained on how to get the fallen worker to safety. Rescues must be done promptly (29 CFR 1926.502(d)(20)) and safely to prevent further injury. Using a Fall Restraint System Employers can use a fall restraint system to protect workers from fall hazards. A fall restraint system stops workers from reaching the edge of the walking/working area even if they lose their footing and slide. OSHA recommends that fall restraint systems have the capacity to withstand 3,000 pounds or twice the maximum expected force needed to restrain the employee from exposure to the fall hazard. www.osha.gov/ pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_ table=INTERPRETATIONS&p_id=22006. When employers use fall restraint systems to prevent workers from reaching unprotected sides or edges, they must train workers how to determine the appropriate lanyard length prior to beginning work. PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 1 5 Using a Guardrail System Employers can use guardrail systems around roof openings and at the roof perimeter to protect workers from fall hazards. Temporary guardrail systems that attach to rafters or other structural members are increasingly available through commercial sources. The top rails of a guardrail system must be 39 to 45 inches above the walking/working surface (29 CFR 1926.502(b)(1)). Intermediate structural members (for example, midrails or screens) must be installed when there is no wall or parapet wall at least 21 inches high (29 CFR 1926.502(b)(2)). Midrails, when used, must be installed midway between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking/ working surface (29 CFR 1926.502(b)(2)(i)). Guardrail systems must be able to withstand a 200-pound force in any outward or downward direction within 2 inches of the top edge (29 CFR 1926.502(b)(3)). Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, and equivalent structural members must withstand a 150-pound force in any outward or downward direction (29 CFR 1926.502(b)(5)). Guardrail systems must be surfaced to prevent punctures and lacerations and to prevent clothes from snagging (29 CFR 1926.502(b)(6)). Warning Lines and Safety Monitors Employers can elect to protect their workers from falling, while engaged in roofing activities on low-slope roofs, by a combination of warning line system and guardrail system, warning line system and safety net system, warning line system and personal fall arrest OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 1 6 system, or warning line system and safety monitoring system. Or, on roofs 50 feet (15.25 m) or less in width, the use of a safety monitoring system alone is permitted (29 CFR 1926.501(b)(10)). The safety monitor is always a competent person (29 CFR 1926.500(b)). The warning line system shall consist of ropes, wires, or chains, and supporting stanchions (29 CFR 1926.502(f)(2)). The warning line system shall: ■ be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the roof edge (29 CFR 1926.502(f)(1) (i)); not less than 10 feet when mechanical equipment is used (29 CFR 1926.502(f)(1)(ii)); ■ be flagged at least every 6 feet with high- visibility material (29 CFR 1926.502(f)(2)(i)); ■ be no less than 34 inches (.9 m) and no more than 39 inches (1.0 m) from the walking/ working surface (29 CFR 1926.502(f)(2)(ii)); ■ be capable of resisting a force of at least 16 pounds (71 N) without tipping over (29 CFR 1926.502(f)(2)(iii)); ■ have a minimum tensile strength of 500 pounds (2.22 kN) (29 CFR 1926.502(f)(2)(iv)); ■ be attached in such a way that pulling on the line will not result in slack being taken up in adjacent sections before the stanchion tips over (29 CFR 1926.502(f)(2)(v)). Covers Employers can use covers to protect workers from falling through skylights and other holes/openings on roofs (29 CFR 1926.501(b) (4)(i)). If used the covers shall: ■ be capable of supporting, without failure, at least twice the weight of employees, equipment, and materials that may be imposed on the cover at any one time (29 CFR 1926.502(i)(2)); PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 1 7 ■ be secured when installed so as to prevent accidental displacement by the wind, equipment, or employees (29 CFR 1926.502(i)(3)); ■ be color coded or marked with the word “HOLE” or “COVER” to provide warning of the hazard (29 CFR 1926.502(i)(4)). All Ladders Ladders can give roofers a convenient way to access upper work levels. Extension ladders and stepladders are the two most common types of ladders on roofing job sites. Employers must ensure that ladders are inspected by a competent person for visible defects on a periodic basis and after any occurrence that could affect their safe use (29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(15)). The employer shall train each worker how to recognize hazards related to ladders and in the procedures to be followed to minimize those hazards (29 CFR 1926.1060(a)). Secure footing for all ladders is important; ladders must be used only on stable and level surfaces unless they are secured to prevent accidental displacement (29 CFR 1926.1053(b) (6)). It may be necessary to take steps to create a secure footing that will support the ladder without the ladder sinking, shifting, or sliding. Employers must ensure that areas at the top and bottom of the ladder are kept clear (29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(9)), and ladders must not be placed in areas of traffic, such as driveways or doorways, unless they are secured to prevent accidental displacement or protected from the traffic via a barricade (29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(8)). OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 1 8 Worker Position on a Ladder As a good practice, employers should train workers to maintain three points of contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) at all times when ascending or descending a ladder. Additionally, workers must not carry anything that could cause them to lose their balance and fall (29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(22)). (Workers can put tools in a bucket and use a rope to pull them up to the working level.) Extension Ladders Employers must ensure that non-self- supporting ladders are set at an angle so the horizontal distance between the top support and the foot of the ladder is approximately one-quarter the working length of the ladder (a 1:4 ratio) (29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(5)(i)). (The working length of the ladder is the distance along the ladder between the foot and the top support.) The side rails of the ladder generally must extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface that the worker is trying to access (29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(1)). When such an extension is not possible because of the ladder’s length, the ladder must be secured at its top to a rigid support that will not deflect and a grasping device, such as a grabrail, must be provided to assist workers in mounting and dismounting the ladder. Stepladders Employers need to ensure that workers use stepladders in the fully open position. Workers must not use the top or the top step of a stepladder as a step; doing so could lead to serious injury (29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(13)). See these additional resources related to safe ladder work practices: PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 1 9 ■ Falling Off Ladders Can Kill – Use Them Safely: www.osha.gov/Publications/ OSHA3625.pdf ■ Safe Use of Extension Ladders – Fact Sheet: www.osha.gov/Publications/ OSHA3660.pdf ■ Safe Use of Job-made Wooden Ladders – Fact Sheet: www.osha.gov/Publications/ OSHA3661.pdf ■ Safe Use of Stepladders – Fact Sheet: www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3662.pdf ■ NIOSH Ladder safety app for mobile devices: www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/falls Additional OSHA requirements regarding ladders are provided in 29 CFR 1926.1053. Scaffolding Scaffolds must be designed by a qualified person and must be constructed and loaded in accord with that design (29 CFR 1926.451(a)(6)). Employers must ensure that only experienced and trained workers erect, move, dismantle or alter scaffolds. That work must be done under the supervision and direction of a competent person qualified in scaffold erection, moving, dismantling, or alteration (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(7)). Access Workers are most vulnerable to fall hazards when climbing on or off a scaffold. Therefore, employers need to provide safe scaffold access. When scaffold platforms are more than 2 feet above or below a point of access, workers must use portable ladders, hook-on ladders, attachable ladders, stair towers, stairway- type ladders, ramps, walkways, integral pre- fabricated scaffold access, or direct access from another scaffold, structure, personnel hoist or similar surface (29 CFR 1926.451(e)(1)). OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 2 0 Platform Employers must ensure that each platform on all working levels of scaffolds are fully planked or decked between the front uprights and the guardrail supports as per 29 CFR 1926.451(b)(1). The space between adjacent platform units and the space between the platform and the uprights must be no more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, except where the employer can demonstrate that a wider space is necessary (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(1)(i)). Guardrails Employers must ensure that workers on a scaffold more than 10 feet above a lower level are protected from falls (29 CFR 1926.451(g) (1)). Employers often use guardrails to provide this protection. Guardrails used to comply with OSHA’s fall protection requirements for scaffolds must be installed along all open sides and ends of platforms (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(i)). And generally, toprails must be installed between 36 or 38 and 45 inches above the platform surface depending on the type and age of the scaffold (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(ii)). Toprails must be able to withstand, without failure, a force (applied in any downward or horizontal direction at any point along its top edge) of at least 100 pounds for single-point and two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds and of at least 200 pounds for all other scaffolds (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(vii)). When midrails are used, employers must ensure that they are installed at a height approximately midway between the top edge of the guardrail system and the platform surface (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(iv)). PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 2 1 When screens and mesh are used, employers must ensure they extend from the top edge of the guardrail system to the scaffold platform, and along the entire opening between the supports (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(v)). Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, and equivalent structural members of a guardrail system must be able to withstand, without failure, a force applied in any downward or horizontal direction at any point along the midrail or other member of at least 75 pounds for guardrail systems with a minimum 100 pound toprail capacity, and at least 150 pounds for guardrail systems with a minimum 200 pound toprail capacity (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(ix)). Falling Object Protection Employers are required to protect workers from objects falling from scaffolds (29 CFR 1926.451(h)(1)). Where there is a danger of tools, materials, or equipment falling from a scaffold and striking workers below, employers must follow a series of requirements (29 CFR 1926.451(h)(2)). The area below the scaffold must be barricaded and workers must not enter the hazard area (29 CFR 1926.451(h)(2)(i)). Also, toeboards generally must be erected along the edge of platforms more than 10 feet above lower levels for a distance sufficient to protect workers below (29 CFR 1926.451(h)(2)(ii)). When used, toeboards must be at least 3½ inches high from the top edge of the toeboard to the level of the walking/working surface and must be securely fastened at the outermost edge of the platform and have no more than 1/4 inch clearance above the walking/working surface (29 CFR 1926.451(h)(4)(ii)). OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 2 2 Training Employers must designate a qualified person to train workers how to recognize and control the hazards associated with the type of scaffold being used (29 CFR 1926.454(a)). Employers must also designate a competent person to train workers who erect, disassemble, move, repair, maintain, operate, or inspect scaffolds to recognize any hazards associated with these activities on the scaffold systems they will use (29 CFR 1926.454(b)). Training must be provided in a language the workers being trained can understand. Employers must retrain workers when: ■ changes at the worksite present new hazards; ■ changes in the type of scaffold, fall protection systems, falling object protection systems, or other equipment present new hazards; and ■ inadequacies in work involving scaffolds indicate that the worker has not retained the requisite proficiency. For additional information on what must be included in scaffold training, see 29 CFR 1926.454 – Training Requirements. Lifts Aerial Lifts Employers can use aerial lifts to enable workers to work at the edge of a roof while standing in the lift basket. Employers must only permit authorized workers to operate extensible and articulating boom platforms (29 CFR 1926.453(b)(2)(ii)). Employers must ensure that the controls for extending and articulating arms are tested daily before use PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 2 3 to be sure that they are functioning safely (29 CFR 1926.453(b)(2)(i)). With respect to extensible and articulating boom platforms, employers must ensure that: ■ workers stand firmly on the basket floor and do not sit or climb on the edge of the basket or use planks, ladders, or other devices for a work position (29 CFR 1926.453(b)(2)(iv)); and ■ workers are tied-off to the boom or basket (29 CFR 1926.453(b)(2)(v)). See additional OSHA requirements for aerial lifts in 29 CFR 1926.453. All-Terrain Forklifts All-terrain forklifts are covered under 29 CFR 1926.602(c). Employers use these vehicles for raising equipment and materials to the roof and, in conjunction with manufacturer- approved man-baskets, to raise workers (29 CFR 1926.602(c)(1)(ii)). When elevating workers, a safety platform firmly secured to the lifting carriage and/or forks must be used (29 CFR 1926.602(c)(1)(viii)(A)). Employers must ensure that forklift operators are appropriately trained (29 CFR 1926.602(d); 29 CFR 1910.178(l)). Safe Debris Disposal Employers must consider worker safety when selecting a method for handling debris. If not managed properly, debris can become a trip hazard and contribute to falls. Falling debris can hit workers on the ground below. One effective method employers can use to manage debris is to use a forklift to raise a collection box to the roof level. When the box is full, or when the job is complete, the box of debris can be lowered to the ground OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 2 4 without putting workers at risk. As an added benefit, this practice makes the cleanup process more efficient. Electrical Safety Most electrocutions involving roofers usually result from contact with overhead powerlines (service drops are the most common). Workers can also be exposed to potential electrocution hazards by contacting electrical conduit that may be buried in old roofing material that must be removed. Employers must protect workers from electrical hazards by de-energizing the circuits, grounding, or by guarding it effectively by insulation (29 CFR 1926.416(a)(1)). See additional requirements related to electrical safety under 29 CFR 1926, Subpart K. Integrity of Older Buildings Before work begins, employers must ensure that any roof to be worked on has the strength and structural integrity to safely support workers (29 CFR 1926.501(a)(2)). Sometimes it may be necessary to inspect a roof from the inside of the structure to identify integrity issues. Roofing Operations Built-up Roofing While hot tar built-up roofing represents a small percentage of residential work, it is used often in commercial roofing. Working with hot tar at 500°F can cause severe burns if the tar is mishandled. Fires are obvious hazards around kettles and tankers. Fire prevention is critical during hot work. A kettle can catch fire or even explode if PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 2 5 the tar heats to its flash point. Employers must develop a fire protection program that includes provisions for required firefighting equipment at their job sites (29 CFR 1926.150(a)(1)). Employers must have fire extinguishers, rated not less than 10B, within 50 feet of wherever more than 5 gallons of flammable or combustible liquids or 5 pounds of flammable gas are being used on the job site (29 CFR 1926.150(c)(1)(vi)). Employers should also ensure that workers follow the precautions specified by the manufacturer of the bitumen and the kettle. Employers must ensure that workers are trained to operate equipment safely and to identify and avoid hazards (29 CFR 1926.20(b) (4) and 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2)). Because of the nature of built-up roofing work, employers need to provide necessary personal protective equipment. Working around kettles, tankers, luggers, and mop buckets can lead to spills and splashes from hot tar. To protect workers from burns, proper clothing like gloves, work boots, long sleeve cotton shirts, long cotton pants without cuffs, eye protection or face shields must be provided. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 2 6 Torch Applied Roofing Torch applied roofing uses an open flame system that can reach temperatures of 2,000°F at the torch end. When heat from the torch is improperly applied to the roofing ply, it can conduct enough heat to ignite combustible materials underneath, such as wood decking or trusses, without the knowledge of the roofer. Preconstruction surveys, following the ply manufacturer’s application techniques, and posting a fire watch can prevent a catastrophic loss and personal injury from fires. Regular fire-watch inspections should be done throughout the day by a competent person and for a minimum of two hours starting when the last torch is extinguished on a roof. Inspections should include the roof’s entire field, flashings and the underside of the roof deck. Working around unprotected or improperly stored propane tanks is a recipe for a serious accident. Never heat a propane tank with a torch, lay a tank on its side, or use the wrong gauge or pressure beyond the specifications of the tank or application instructions. Employers must ensure that propane tank storage meets local building codes and OSHA requirements at 29 CFR 1926.153(j), 29 CFR 1926.153(k) and 29 CFR 1926.153(l). Single-ply Roofing While there are some single-ply roofing applications that involve hot work, most applications of single-ply roofing use solvent- based adhesives. These adhesives are usually highly flammable. Employers need to ensure that open flames and smoking are not permitted while these adhesives are used. PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 2 7 Employers need to ensure that workers understand the warnings on the adhesive container labels and follow the personal protective equipment (PPE) handling and use recommendations found in the applicable safety data sheets (SDSs). Roofing Tool Safety Roofing hand and power tools and equipment can be hazardous and can cause severe injuries if used incorrectly. Employers can reduce the risk of injuries by providing tool guards, PPE and training workers. Power tools (e.g., nail guns, saws, etc.) should have the proper shields, guards, or safety attachments specified by the manufacturer. Employers must ensure that workers using power tools wear appropriate eye protection (29 CFR 1926.102(a)(1)). Always be sure to replace damaged or missing tool guards (29 CFR 1926.300(b)(1)). Employers need to train workers on the proper use of roofing tools and equipment. In this training, it is important to discuss tool safety features, safe operating procedures, and safe work practices, such as proper body placement and how to use PPE. Personal Protective Equipment Employers have a duty to protect workers from recognized hazards. Where the hazard cannot be eliminated by other types of controls (e.g., engineering or administrative controls), employers must ensure that workers wear appropriate PPE (29 CFR 1926.28 and 29 CFR 1926.95). Employers need to ensure that workers are properly trained in the inspection, care, fit and use of required PPE. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 2 8 Typical PPE Used with Various Roofing Tools and Equipment • Nail guns: Wear hearing protection and eye protection. Also use safety devices that prevent the nail gun from discharging unless it is in contact with the work surface. Avoid carrying the nail gun against the body, or with a finger on the trigger, or while connected to the air compressor. See Publication on Nail Guns on OSHA’s website at: www.osha.gov/doc/topics/nailgun • Generator/air compressor: Wear hearing protection and eye protection while working near the equipment. • Compressed air: Wear hearing protection and eye protection. Also use a whip check or wire connections to prevent separation. Confirm that the pressure is adjusted appropriately for the tool. • Shingle stripper (manual): Wear proper footwear and eye protection. • Tin snips: Wear work gloves and safety glasses. Discard waste or scrap metal appropriately. • Power saw: Wear hearing protection, eye protection, and work gloves. Ensure that blades are sharp and that guards are in place and functioning correctly. • Working near mobile equipment or traffic: Wear high-visibility clothing (e.g., vest). • Unprotected work at heights 6 feet or greater: Use fall arrest or fall restraint equipment. • Hazardous substance present: Wear an appropriate respirator1 if permissible dust, mist, or fume levels are exceeded. • General: Employers must determine when it is appropriate for workers to wear hard hats, safety glasses, and work boots. Additionally, workers should know how to inspect the PPE and put it on so that it will protect them from the hazards they could encounter at the work site. 1 Workers who are required to wear respirators must be covered by a respiratory protection program and meet other requirements of 29 CFR 1926.103 and 29 CFR 1910.134 – Respiratory Protection. PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 2 9 Protecting Workers Who Work with Hazardous Substances Hazard Communication If workers are exposed to hazardous substances, their employers must develop a hazard communication program that trains workers how to read and understand safety data sheets, container labeling, and other forms of warning. The training must also include the measures workers must use to protect themselves. The employer also must share information about hazardous chemicals with other employers whose workers on the site could be exposed. See 29 CFR 1926.59 and 29 CFR 1910.1200. Specific Health Hazards Roofers may come across hazardous chemicals such as: ■ Asbestos – Asbestos enters the body primarily through inhalation. It can also enter the digestive tract if workers eat or smoke in a contaminated area. Breathing asbestos fibers can cause a buildup of scar-like tissue in the lungs called “asbestosis” and result in loss of lung function that often progresses to disability and death. Asbestos also causes cancer of the lung and other diseases. Employers must protect roofers from asbestos exposure which is found in some insulation products and other roofing and siding materials on older homes. For protection requirements related to working with asbestos-containing materials, see 29 CFR 1926.1101 – Asbestos. ■ Lead – Lead enters the body primarily through inhalation and ingestion. Workers are mainly exposed to lead by breathing in lead-containing dust and fumes. Lead passes through the lungs into the blood OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 3 0 where it can harm many of the body’s organ systems. Employers must protect roofers from lead exposure which is found in lead-based paints, including old paint on exposed woodwork and steel. For protection requirements related to working with lead-containing materials, see 29 CFR 1926.62 – Lead. ■ Silica – Workers who inhale very small crystalline silica particles are at risk for silicosis. Symptoms of silicosis can include shortness of breath, cough and fatigue, and may or may not be obviously attributable to silica. Workers exposed to airborne crystalline silica also are at increased risk for lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease. Employers must protect roofers from silica exposure which may be found in concrete and ceramic roof tiles. For protection requirements related to working with silica-containing materials, see 29 CFR 1926.55 – Appendix A, Gases, Vapors, Fumes, Dusts and Mists. ■ Other. See 29 CFR 1926.55 – Appendix A, Gases, Vapors, Fumes, Dusts and Mists. Coordinating with Other Contractors All contractors on site need to be aware of all operations. For example, contractors should be aware of other employers’ barricaded areas so as to minimize the possibility of workers being hit by falling debris or being struck by moving equipment. Housekeeping Effective housekeeping will help keep the worksite organized and minimize hazards that may cause workers to trip or fall. Specifically, watch for loose cords and air hoses that can PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 3 1 roll underfoot and cause workers to lose their footing on a roof. Keep supplies and hand tools secured so that they do not present a tripping hazard. Secure tools when not in use to ensure that they will not fall off the roof. See 29 CFR 1926.25. Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Emergency Services Employers must train workers in any emergency action plan required by OSHA standards (29 CFR 1926.35(e)(2)). EAPs must include, among other information, the preferred means of reporting emergencies and procedures for evacuating the area (29 CFR 1926.35(b)). Workers should always know the street address of where they are working in case they need to give emergency services their location. Post the site street address and emergency contact information in prominent locations. This will allow workers to quickly contact emergency services with necessary information. First Aid and Medical Emergencies When there is no infirmary, clinic, hospital, or physician within a reasonably accessible time and distance, employers must ensure that someone is available at the site with first-aid training verified by documentary evidence (such as a training certificate) (29 CFR 1926.50(c)). Required first-aid supplies must be easily accessible (29 CFR 1926.50(d)(1)). Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body must be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use (29 CFR 1926.50(g)). See 29 CFR 1926.50 – Medical Services and First Aid, for additional requirements. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 3 2 General Duty to Protect Workers from Other Hazards Roofers are routinely exposed to the elements, which means there is often a threat of overexposure to hot or cold conditions, the sun, or stinging or biting insects. Employers have a duty to protect workers from recognized serious hazards on the job site (Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act). Heat Illnesses Every year, thousands of workers become sick from occupational heat exposure, and some even die. These illnesses and deaths are preventable. Symptoms of heat illnesses include: ■ Throbbing headache ■ Dizziness and light-headedness ■ Lack of sweating despite the heat ■ Red, hot, and dry skin ■ Muscle weakness or cramps ■ Nausea and vomiting ■ Rapid heartbeat, which may be either strong or weak ■ Rapid, shallow breathing ■ Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering ■ Seizures ■ Unconsciousness Employers should plan for preventing — and treating workers who are experiencing symptoms of — heat-related illnesses. Heat illnesses range from heat rash and heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention and can result in death. Employers should provide workers with water, rest and shade; should gradually increase workloads and allow more frequent breaks for new workers or workers who have been away for PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 3 3 a week or more (acclimatization); and should educate workers about the symptoms of heat- related illnesses and how to prevent them. Always remember: WATER, REST, SHADE. Note: Get more information on how to prevent heat illnesses, as well as planning and training resources, from OSHA’s Heat Illness Prevention website at www.osha.gov/heat. Cold Stress Prolonged exposure to freezing or cold temperatures can cause serious health problems such as trench foot, frostbite and hypothermia. In extreme cases, including cold water immersion, exposure can lead to death. Employers need to train workers how to recognize the danger signs of cold stress, which can include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue, and confused behavior. If these signs are observed, workers should know how to get emergency help. Note: Get more information on how to prevent cold weather injuries, illnesses and fatalities, as well as planning and training resources, from OSHA’s Winter Weather website: www.osha.gov/dts/weather/winter_weather. Other Weather Conditions High winds, wet weather, and icy conditions are especially hazardous for roofing workers. It is important for employers to consider suspending operations in bad weather. This is especially important when working on any roofing surface that can be particularly slippery when wet, including slate, tile, metal roofs and some single ply membranes. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 3 4 Workers’ Rights Workers have the right to: ■ Working conditions that do not pose a risk of serious harm. ■ Receive information and training (in a language and vocabulary the worker understands) about workplace hazards, methods to prevent them, and the OSHA standards that apply to their workplace. ■ Review records of work-related injuries and illnesses. ■ File a complaint asking OSHA to inspect their workplace if they believe there is a serious hazard or that their employer is not following OSHA’s rules. OSHA will keep all identities confidential. ■ Exercise their rights under the law without retaliation, including reporting an injury or raising health and safety concerns with their employer or OSHA. If a worker has been retaliated against for using their rights, they must file a complaint with OSHA as soon as possible, but no later than 30 days. For more information, see OSHA’s Workers page. OSHA Assistance, Services and Programs OSHA has a great deal of information to assist employers in complying with their responsibilities under OSHA law. Several OSHA programs and services can help employers identify and correct job hazards, as well as improve their injury and illness prevention program. PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 3 5 Establishing an Injury and Illness Prevention Program The key to a safe and healthful work environment is a comprehensive injury and illness prevention program. Injury and illness prevention programs are systems that can substantially reduce the number and severity of workplace injuries and illnesses, while reducing costs to employers. Thousands of employers across the United States already manage safety using injury and illness prevention programs, and OSHA believes that all employers can and should do the same. Thirty-four states have requirements or voluntary guidelines for workplace injury and illness prevention programs. Most successful injury and illness prevention programs are based on a common set of key elements. These include management leadership, worker participation, hazard identification, hazard prevention and control, education and training, and program evaluation and improvement. Visit OSHA’s Injury and Illness Prevention Programs web page at www.osha.gov/dsg/topics/ safetyhealth for more information. Compliance Assistance Specialists OSHA has compliance assistance specialists throughout the nation located in most OSHA offices. Compliance assistance specialists can provide information to employers and workers about OSHA standards, short educational programs on specific hazards or OSHA rights and responsibilities, and information on additional compliance assistance resources. For more details, visit www.osha.gov/dcsp/compliance_assistance/ cas.html or call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) to contact your local OSHA office. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 3 6 Free On-site Safety and Health Consultation Services for Small Business OSHA’s On-site Consultation Program offers free and confidential advice to small and medium-sized businesses in all states across the country, with priority given to high-hazard worksites. Each year, responding to requests from small employers looking to create or improve their safety and health management programs, OSHA’s On-site Consultation Program conducts over 29,000 visits to small business worksites covering over 1.5 million workers across the nation. On-site consultation services are separate from enforcement and do not result in penalties or citations. Consultants from state agencies or universities work with employers to identify workplace hazards, provide advice on compliance with OSHA standards, and assist in establishing safety and health management programs. For more information, to find the local On-site Consultation office in your state, or to request a brochure on Consultation Services, visit www.osha.gov/consultation, or call 1-800-321- OSHA (6742). Under the consultation program, certain exemplary employers may request participation in OSHA’s Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP). Eligibility for participation includes, but is not limited to, receiving a full-service, comprehensive consultation visit, correcting all identified hazards and developing an effective safety and health management program. Worksites that receive SHARP recognition are exempt from programmed inspections during the period that the SHARP certification is valid. PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 3 7 Occupational Safety and Health Training Courses The OSHA Training Institute partners with 27 OSHA Training Institute Education Centers at 42 locations throughout the United States to deliver courses on OSHA standards and occupational safety and health topics to thousands of students a year. For more information on training courses, visit www. osha.gov/otiec. OSHA Educational Materials OSHA has many types of educational materials in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and other languages available in print or online. These include: ■ Brochures/booklets; ■ Fact Sheets; ■ Guidance documents that provide detailed examinations of specific safety and health issues; ■ Online Safety and Health Topics pages; ■ Posters; ■ Small, laminated QuickCards™ that provide brief safety and health information; and ■ QuickTakes, OSHA’s free, twice-monthly online newsletter with the latest news about OSHA initiatives and products to assist employers and workers in finding and preventing workplace hazards. To sign up for QuickTakes visit www.osha.gov/quicktakes. To view materials available online or for a listing of free publications, visit www.osha. gov/publications. You can also call 1-800-321- OSHA (6742) to order publications. OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 3 8 OSHA’s web site also has information on job hazards and injury and illness prevention for employers and workers. To learn more about OSHA’s safety and health resources online, visit www.osha.gov. Use the A-Z index to help find information and assistance. NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation Program Getting Help with Health Hazards The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is a federal agency that conducts scientific and medical research on workers’ safety and health. At no cost to employers or workers, NIOSH can help identify health hazards and recommend ways to reduce or eliminate those hazards in the workplace through its Health Hazard Evaluation (HHE) Program. Workers, union representatives and employers can request a NIOSH HHE. An HHE is often requested when there is a higher than expected rate of a disease or injury in a group of workers. These situations may be the result of an unknown cause, a new hazard, or a mixture of sources. To request a NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation go to www.cdc. gov/niosh/hhe/request.html. To find out more about the Health Hazard Evaluation Program: ■ Call (513) 841-4382, or to talk to a staff member in Spanish, call (513) 841-4439; or ■ Send an email to HHERequestHelp@cdc.gov. PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 3 9 OSHA Regional Offices Region I Boston Regional Office (CT*, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT*) JFK Federal Building, Room E340 Boston, MA 02203 (617) 565-9860 (617) 565-9827 Fax Region II New York Regional Office (NJ*, NY*, PR*, VI*) 201 Varick Street, Room 670 New York, NY 10014 (212) 337-2378 (212) 337-2371 Fax Region III Philadelphia Regional Office (DE, DC, MD*, PA, VA*, WV) The Curtis Center 170 S. Independence Mall West Suite 740 West Philadelphia, PA 19106-3309 (215) 861-4900 (215) 861-4904 Fax Region IV Atlanta Regional Office (AL, FL, GA, KY*, MS, NC*, SC*, TN*) 61 Forsyth Street, SW, Room 6T50 Atlanta, GA 30303 (678) 237-0400 (678) 237-0447 Fax Region V Chicago Regional Office (IL*, IN*, MI*, MN*, OH, WI) 230 South Dearborn Street Room 3244 Chicago, IL 60604 (312) 353-2220 (312) 353-7774 Fax OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 4 0 Region VI Dallas Regional Office (AR, LA, NM*, OK, TX) 525 Griffin Street, Room 602 Dallas, TX 75202 (972) 850-4145 (972) 850-4149 Fax (972) 850-4150 FSO Fax Region VII Kansas City Regional Office (IA*, KS, MO, NE) Two Pershing Square Building 2300 Main Street, Suite 1010 Kansas City, MO 64108-2416 (816) 283-8745 (816) 283-0547 Fax Region VIII Denver Regional Office (CO, MT, ND, SD, UT*, WY*) Cesar Chavez Memorial Building 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 551 Denver, CO 80204 (720) 264-6550 (720) 264-6585 Fax Region IX San Francisco Regional Office (AZ*, CA*, HI*, NV*, and American Samoa, Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands) 90 7th Street, Suite 18100 San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 625-2547 (415) 625-2534 Fax Region X Seattle Regional Office (AK*, ID, OR*, WA*) 300 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1280 Seattle, WA 98104 (206) 757-6700 (206) 757-6705 Fax PROTECTING ROOFING WORKERS 4 1 * These states and territories operate their own OSHA-approved job safety and health plans and cover state and local government employees as well as private sector employees. The Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Virgin Islands programs cover public employees only. (Private sector workers in these states are covered by Federal OSHA). States with approved programs must have standards that are identical to, or at least as effective as, the Federal OSHA standards. Note: To get contact information for OSHA area offices, OSHA-approved state plans and OSHA consultation projects, please visit us online at www.osha.gov or call us at 1-800- 321-OSHA (6742). OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION 4 2 How to Contact OSHA For questions or to get information or advice, to report an emergency, report a fatality or catastrophe, order publications, sign up for OSHA’s e-newsletter QuickTakes, or to file a confidential complaint, contact your nearest OSHA office, visit www.osha.gov or call OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742), TTY 1-877-889-5627. For assistance, contact us . We are OSHA . We can help . U .S . Department of Labor For more information: Occupational Safety and Health Administration www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA (6742) and recommendations for developing a safety and health program.