The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited a Florida-based roofing contractor for exposing employees to fall hazards at a Jacksonville worksite, making it the fourth inspection since May 2022, where the contractor has been cited for violating safety regulations.

According to a release from OSHA, Brayden Roofing Specialists allowed employees to work on 10-foot high roofs without fall protection during a job on Aug. 9. The agency also claims the company failed to ensure ladder rails extended above the roof's upper landing surface; OSHA is proposing $72,683 in penalties for the latest infractions.

Previously, Brayden Roofing was cited for similar violations in three previous investigations dating back to May 2022. In May of that year, the company was cited for "lack of head, eye and face protection and fall protection," resulting in an $8,081 penalty, which was reduced to $4,849 in an 'informal' settlement. In December 2022, OSHA cited the company with two repeat violations for "lack of eye and face protection" and "fall protection." A proposed penalty of $18,750 was informally settled to $13,140. 

In January 2023, Brayden Roofing received one repeat violation after inspectors said the employer failed to ensure workers used fall protection. The proposed $20,627 penalty was reduced to $14,400 in an informal settlement.

“In less than two years, four workplace safety investigations found violations related to inadequate or non-existent fall protection, Brayden Roofing Specialists has shown a clear pattern of willfully disregard for their employees’ safety, health and well-being,” said OSHA Area Office Director Scott Tisdale in Jacksonville, Fla.

“Serious injuries and potential deaths are avoidable when employers commit to following required safety measures, such as providing fall protection to employees and training them to recognize and avoid hazards,” Tisdale added.

Falls from elevation continue to be the leading cause of death in the construction industry. 'Fall hazard' violations were the top most cited OSHA workplace violations in 2023, the 13th consecutive time at the top of the list.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the latest citations and 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. 

View the citation here.