07.10.2011

$39,400 for lack of fall protection

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Rda Service Co of Citronelle, Alabama for seven serious safety and health violations following the death in April of its employee James Lewis, 23, after he was thrown from a ‘bucket truck’ type aerial lift.

Alabama Power had contracted Rda to clear trees from overhead power lines on Otis Buie Road in Webb, Alabama, a tree struck the aerial lift throwing Lewis to the ground from a height of around 12 metres.

The primary violation relating to the fatality was for failing to ensure that employees were wearing fall protection in an aerial lift. Particularly as a harness and short lanyard may have saved his life.

Three other violations related to allowing employees to be within the fall zone of a tree being cut down, not ensuring that a retreat path was cleared and designated prior to felling the tree and failing to properly cut the tree to ensure that it fells in the intended direction.

The other violations involve failing to train employees in first aid and CPR and provide adequate first-aid supplies.

The proposed penalties for the violations total $39,400. The company, which carries out site clearing and tree trimming services, has 15 business days to pay, request a conference with OSHA's area director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.