OSHA Defense

How Poor Roadway Infrastructure Can Lead to an OSHA Violation During Redevelopment featured image

How Poor Roadway Infrastructure Can Lead to an OSHA Violation During Redevelopment

When you enter a contract with the government to restore existing roadway infrastructure, it is important to consider the full breadth of existing conditions that could result in an OSHA violation. Redevelopment efforts aim to address a problem with a completed project. More often than not, these issues present a clear and present danger to contracted workers.

If you are spearheading a federal infrastructure restoration project, speak with an OSHA attorney to find out how you can protect yourself from violating OSHA regulations while you complete your project.

Existing Problems

Restoring infrastructure requires your team to enter a job site that is currently labeled as unsafe for public usage. This designation means your team will face imminent safety hazards when entering the job site. Natural degradation of infrastructure creates uneven surfaces and debris that can pose a threat to workers. Poor lighting during night time construction can result in serious injury and poor drainage can lead to various health problems. Even something as simple as an unmarked pothole can result in a serious OSHA violation, so make sure you collaborate with licensed professionals to locate any potential hazards before you start working.

Common Violations

Poor roadway infrastructure restoration projects face many of the same challenges as other construction sites. Applying your existing knowledge of OSHA regulations can help decrease the likelihood of a violation. For example, some of the most common OSHA violations issued to roadway infrastructure projects include fall protection, hazard communication, respiratory protection, lockout, tagout, electrical wiring methods, and machine guarding.

Restoring existing roadway infrastructure gives you the opportunity to complete a meaningful project that will positively affect countless lives. However, it is important to recognize the inherent risks of taking on such a project. Controlled demolition and restoration require your team to enter a site full of potential hazards to complete their task. You risk violating OSHA regulations if you do not exercise tact and foresight to prevent any possible injuries.

If you would like to speak with one of our OSHA attorneys, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.