October 31, 2023

US Department of Labor again cites Jacksonville residential roofing contractor for exposing workers to fall hazards, proposes $72K in penalties

Employer:  Brayden Roofing Specialists LLC
4728 Brierwood Road
Jacksonville, FL 32257

Investigation Findings:  On Aug. 9, 2023, a U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigation found that Brayden Roofing willfully exposed employees to fall hazards by allowing them to work on 10-foot high roofs without fall protection at a Jacksonville worksite. The agency also cited the company with a serious violation for not making sure ladder rails extended above the roof's upper landing surface.

Proposed penalties:  $72,683  

Background:  In three previous investigations in 2022 and 2023, OSHA cited Brayden Roofing Specialists for similar failures. In May 2022, inspectors identified three serious violations related to lack of head protection, eye and face protection and fall protection at a Jacksonville worksite. In December 2022, OSHA cited the company with two repeat violations for lack of eye and face protection and fall protection at a Jacksonville worksite. In January 2023, the company received a citation for one repeat violation after inspectors found the employer did not make sure to workers used fall protection at a Palm Coast worksite.

Falls from elevation continue to be the leading cause of death in the construction industry. Of 1,008 industry workers' deaths in 2020, 351 were related to falls to lower levels. OSHA offers a number of resources such as posters, fact sheets, training materials and social media graphics online at its Fall Prevention Campaign page. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA's compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.

Quote:  "In less than two years, four workplace safety investigations found violations related to inadequate or non-existent fall protection, Brayden Roofing Specialists has shown a clear pattern of willfully disregard for their employees' safety, health and well-being," explained OSHA Area Office Director Scott Tisdale in Jacksonville, Florida. "Serious injuries and potential deaths are avoidable when employers commit to following required safety measures, such as providing fall protection to employees and training them to recognize and avoid hazards."

Media Contacts:

Erika B. Ruthman, 678-237-0630, ruthman.erika.b@dol.gov
Eric R. Lucero, 678-237-0630, lucero.eric.r@dol.gov

Release Number:  23-2260-ATL (336)