WOODLAND PARK, N.J. — OSHA has cited Eastern Contractors LLC for exposing employees to falls and other safety hazards at a worksite in Paterson, N.J. following the death of a worker who fell.

OSHA said it initiated an investigation in October 2018 after the Paterson Police Dept. notified the agency that an employee suffered a fatal fall during roofing removal and replacement work.

Agency inspectors determined that the company exposed employees to fall hazards, and failed to cover roof openings, provide a fall protection system, and train workers on safety hazards present at the worksite. The citations indicate workers were about 17 feet above the ground and the violations occurred between Oct. 26 and Oct. 30.

NorthJersey.com initially reported on the death and said the 56-year-old roofer was on a "high, one-story building" when he fell into an empty dumpster. First responders tried to save him but they were not successful. 

The roofing contractor faces $19,890 in penalties.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.