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Builder cited for safety violations after worker’s throat lacerated

Posted On: Aug. 15, 2018 9:08 AM CST

Builder cited for safety violations after worker’s throat lacerated

Federal workplace safety regulators have cited and proposed $57,738 in penalties against a Florida construction company for allowing the use of unguarded machines after an employee suffered a serious throat injury.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited St. Augustine, Florida-based G&H Underground Construction Inc. after agency investigators determined that while the employee cut a concrete pipe, the saw blade kicked back, causing a laceration on the employee’s throat, the agency said Tuesday in a statement. OSHA cited the construction company for failing to provide eye and face protection, failing to train employees on operating equipment and not inspecting equipment for damages and defects, according to the statement.

“Manufacturers equip power tools with safety devices to protect workers from serious injuries,” Michelle Gonzalez, OSHA’s Jacksonville, Florida, acting area office director, said in the statement. “This employer disregarded safety requirements by altering those protective devices, causing a life-threatening injury.”

A company spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment.