OSHA cites Missouri demolition company after fatalities

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited World Wrecking and Scrap Salvage Services Inc., a demolition company headquartered in Town and Country, Missouri, for failing to provide fall protection after two employees suffered fatal injuries at a demolition site in St. Louis.

OSHA says the employees were cutting pipes while working from a suspended scaffold in June when the scaffold collapsed. OSHA inspectors determined that the company – owned by Keith Hanford – failed to ensure that employees used a vertical life line and other fall protection; conduct regular inspections of the scaffold equipment; adequately train workers to recognize and avoid fall hazards; and properly ground an electric motor used on the scaffold. The company faces penalties of $23,280.

“Providing fall protection for employees working at heights is not optional and can prevent tragedies,” says St. Louis Area Office Director Bill McDonald in a written statement.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the 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.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to help ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit https://www.osha.gov.