Roofing Company Owner Pleads Guilty after Employee Dies in Roofing Accident

Roofers work in a hazardous environment, usually 10 or even 20 or 30 feet off the ground. To keep roofers safe, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has strict regulations that roofing companies have to comply with in order to own and operate their business. Failing to comply with OSHA regulations typically result in fines, but in rare cases, criminal charges can be brought against a roofing company owner in the event of injury or death.

A Pennsylvania man who owned a roofing company just outside Philadelphia recently plead guilty to several charges two years after one of his employees died in a fall. He plead guilty to four counts of making false statements, one count of obstruction of justice and one count of willfully violating an Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulation resulting in the death of an employee. He could spend as many as 25 years in prison.

The lesson for roofing companies

This case should serve as an important reminder to roofing company owners. Because of the nature of roofing work, it’s crucial to be compliant with all OSHA regulations and to stay up to date on new regulations or any changes to existing regulations. Making sure that employees are trained in all of the safety precautions and to use safety equipment is also a must.

The lesson for homeowners

There is also a couple of important lessons for homeowners who need roofing work done. Though on-the-job roofing injuries are relatively uncommon, especially when the roofing company is complying with OSHA regulations, there’s always a small risk. Any reputable roofing company will have insurance to cover costs in the event of an employee being injured on the job so that you, as the homeowner, aren’t held liable. Don’t be afraid to ask to see proof of insurance. An honest roofing contractor will gladly show proof of insurance when asked. Don’t have a friend of the family with a little bit of roofing experience or a fly-by-night roofer do any work on top of your roof. The risk is too great especially considering that these types of “roofers” are less likely to have the proper safety training and equipment.

This should also serve as a reminder that homeowners should leave roofing work to the professionals. Anytime you are up on your roof there is the potential for serious injury or death. Leave any kind of roofing work to professional roofers who have the training and equipment to do the job safely and properly.

Home improvement news brought to you by bartonroof.com

Source:
montgomerynews.com/articles/2015/12/12/glenside_news_globe_times_chronicle/news/doc5669d13ff2b13621076204.txt