December 27, 2024 | JacobiJournal.com — OSHA fine: A New Jersey contractor is facing $328,545 in penalties after federal inspectors cited repeated fall hazards and other workplace safety violations. The case highlights OSHA’s escalating enforcement efforts against companies with ongoing safety compliance issues.
This OSHA fine also draws attention to broader industry concerns, as construction continues to rank among the most dangerous occupations in the United States. Regulators stress that fall hazards are one of the leading causes of worker fatalities nationwide, and repeat violations like those alleged in this case highlight the agency’s focus on deterring unsafe practices through significant financial penalties.
OSHA Inspections Uncover Safety Violations
OSHA first inspected an RRC Home Improvement worksite in Dover in June 2024 after reports surfaced of employees working on a roof without fall protection. Following a warning about this safety issue, OSHA initiated further inspections in July 2024 at two additional RRC worksites in Lodi. At these sites, inspectors once again observed employees without proper fall protection.
In addition to fall-related hazards, the inspections revealed other violations, including:
- Lack of required hard hats and eye protection
- Missing fire extinguishers
- Improper pump jack scaffold poles
- Unsafe ladder use
These findings highlight serious lapses in workplace safety protocols.
Severe Penalties Issued for Violations
New Jersey Contractor: After completing the three inspections, OSHA cited RRC Home Improvement for four willful and seven serious violations. These citations resulted in proposed penalties totaling $328,545. The company has a 15-business-day window to respond by complying, requesting an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contesting the findings before OSHA’s independent review commission.
Repeat Offender Added to Severe Violators Program
This is not the first time RRC Home Improvement has faced scrutiny from OSHA. Since 2017, the agency has conducted five inspections and issued citations for failing to provide adequate fall protection. Due to the willful nature of these offenses, OSHA has now added the company to its severe violators program.
About RRC Home Improvement Inc.
RRC Home Improvement provides commercial roofing, specialty roofing, and residential roofing services across New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Despite its regional presence, the company’s safety practices have repeatedly come under fire, underscoring the importance of strict compliance with federal workplace safety standards.
For industry observers, the company’s repeated OSHA citations raise concerns not only about regulatory compliance but also about the potential risks faced by both workers and clients who rely on these services. Contractors operating across multiple states are expected to maintain consistent safety standards, and repeated violations can jeopardize business reputation, client trust, and future contract opportunities.
The company’s addition to OSHA’s severe violators program means that any future infractions could result in even harsher penalties and stricter monitoring. For businesses in the construction and roofing sectors, the $328,545 OSHA fine serves as a critical reminder that safety lapses can carry not only financial consequences but also long-term damage to reputation and operational stability.
For the full OSHA report on this case, visit the official OSHA website.
FAQs: New Jersey Contractor OSHA Fine
What led to the contractor OSHA fine?
The fine was issued after OSHA inspections revealed repeated fall hazards and other serious safety violations at multiple worksites.
How much is the OSHA fine for the New Jersey contractor?
The contractor was fined $328,545 for four willful and seven serious violations involving workplace safety hazards.
Why was the contractor added to OSHA’s severe violators program?
Due to repeated safety violations since 2017, OSHA classified the company as a severe violator, which subjects it to heightened oversight.
How can contractors avoid an OSHA fine?
Contractors must enforce fall protection, provide safety equipment, and comply with OSHA regulations through regular inspections and training.
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