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Ecmweb 23416 Solar Panels Gettyimages 175222804 Banksphotos
Ecmweb 23416 Solar Panels Gettyimages 175222804 Banksphotos
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Ecmweb 23416 Solar Panels Gettyimages 175222804 Banksphotos
Ecmweb 23416 Solar Panels Gettyimages 175222804 Banksphotos

Solar Contractor Cited by OSHA After Fatal Electrocution at Kansas Jobsite

Jan. 11, 2019
Inspectors determined that the employee was hoisting a metal rail that came into contact with energized overhead power lines.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited Maryland-based contractor Power Factor LLC for exposing workers to electrical hazards after an employee was fatally electrocuted while installing solar panels on a building in Fort Riley, Kan.

Inspectors determined that the employee was hoisting a metal rail that came into contact with energized overhead power lines. OSHA cited Power Factor LLC for permitting employees to work in close proximity to electrical power circuits without de-energizing and grounding the circuits, or guarding the circuits using insulation or other means; and failing to maintain a safety program to conduct regular inspections of the jobsite, and train workers to recognize and avoid hazards. The company faces penalties of $39,836 for four serious violations.

“This tragedy could have been prevented if the employer had complied with electrical standards that require maintaining a safe distance from unprotected energized power lines, training employees, and providing personal protective equipment,” said OSHA Wichita Area Director Ryan Hodge.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

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