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OSHA News Release
2003 - 06/16/2003 - OSHA Cites Contractor for Exposing Workers to Electrical Hazards at Gulfport, Miss., Worksite |
OSHA News Release - Table of Contents |
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Region 4 News Release ATL 03-98 Mon., June 16, 2003 Contact: Clyde Payne Jo Anne Burgoyne Phone: (601) 965-4604 ext 0 (404) 562-2076 OSHA Cites Contractor for Exposing Workers to Electrical Hazards at Gulfport, Miss., Worksite Proposed Penalties Total $46,800 JACKSON, Miss. -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Marlin Contracting Co., Inc., and proposed penalties totaling $46,800, for safety hazards at a Wortham and Saucier-Lorena Road, Gulfport, powerline project where one worker was seriously injured. On Jan. 2, eight Marlin employees were working on a powerline distribution system when one member of the crew, who had only been on the job two days, received an electrical shock and severe electrical burns. The worker remains partially paralyzed from his injuries. The agency issued 12 citations for alleged serious violations of safety standards to the Louisiana-based company, including charges that the company failed to provide safety training for employees working with high-voltage electrical lines and operating aerial lift equipment; failed to maintain the required distance between workers, equipment and energized powerlines; did not provide tools certified for use on powerlines; did not inspect and discard damaged tools or insulating equipment; and failed to provide adequate traffic barriers and high visibility clothing for ground employees working adjacent to traffic areas. "This accident could have been prevented if the company had taken precautions required by OSHA regulations and industry practice," said Clyde Payne, OSHA's Jackson area director. Payne added that between Oct. 1, 2001 and Sept. 30, 2002, staff from OSHA offices in Mississippi, Florida, Georgia and Alabama investigated 46 fatal accidents involving electrocutions. In an effort to reduce hazards that lead to these tragedies, the agency has entered into an alliance with the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi to "promote a culture of prevention" through safety training and outreach programs. The Jackson staff also investigated this accident. The office is located at 3780 Interstate 55 North, Suite 210; phone: (601) 965-4604, ext 0. Marlin Contracting has 15 working days to contest the OSHA citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. OSHA issues a serious citation when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm from a hazard about which an employer knew or should have known. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is dedicated to saving lives, preventing injuries and illnesses, and protection America's workers. Safety and health add value to business, the workplace and life. For more information, visit www.osha.gov. # # #
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