In October of 2019, a partial building collapse of an under construction Hard Rock Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana killed 3 construction workers and injured many others. After a roughly 6 month long investigation, OSHA has proposed fines against one engineer and 10 contractors, totaling $315,536.
The brunt of the fine was issued to the structural designer, as OSHA determined that they “failed to adequately design, review or approve steel bolt connections affecting the structural integrity of the building.” The engineer was assessed 2 serious violations and 1 willful violation, adding up to $154,214.
In their report, OSHA specifically called out design flaws in the floor beams on the 16th floor, the exterior bay, and the cantilevers on the 17th and 18th floor. An attorney representing the engineering company told the Daily Advertiser that they are in disagreement with OSHA’s findings.
The general contractor was assessed 3 serious violations, totaling $28,338, for improper egress, exists and access to access not being marked by a visible sign, and for not having all necessary drawings and plans for beam shoring available on site.
9 subcontractors were also cited for various violations, including not maintain safety data sheets, failure to train employees, failing to provide PPE, and failing to maintain structural stability, among others. Most of the subcontractors were cited for failing to keep maintain and provide free and obstructed egress from the building.
You can find links to all of the citations on OSHA’s website.
In a statement, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Loren Sweatt, said, “Employers must adhere to safety and health requirements to protect all workers on the jobsite. Failing to recognize hazards and implement necessary safety measures resulted in a preventable tragedy.”
In addition to OSHA’s findings, the Daily Advertiser reports that the city fo New Orleans has also accused two of their inspectors of approving work on the site without actually visiting it.
The city had planned to implode what’s left of the building, but insurance issues will cause them to have to dismantle the structure manually. The bodies of 2 of the 3 victims are still inside the building, as the site is still deemed to dangerous to enter.
Full story: At collapsed New Orleans Hard Rock Hotel, OSHA cites 'willful,' 'serious' safety violations | Daily Advertiser
Shane is the creator of Construction Junkie and an active construction project manager. In his career, he has managed interior remodel projects, site development, construction safety, governmental project compliance, and facility maintenance. He has a strong passion for construction technology and safety, as well as sharing the knowledge or insights he has gained throughout his career.