BRAINTREE, MA – The U.S. Department of Labor's investigation into the 29-story fall of a window cleaner in downtown Boston's financial district in October 2023 has revealed alarming negligence on the part of the employer, Sky Safety Inc.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Sky Safety Inc. failed to inspect and replace damaged or defective equipment, leading to the tragic incident. OSHA found that the company exposed employees to fall hazards by not ensuring that personal fall protection systems and rope descent systems were in proper working condition at the 100 Summer Street work site.
OSHA Regional Administrator Galen Blanton emphasized the importance of thorough training and inspection protocols, stating, "To ensure the safety of employees who work at heights, employers like Sky Safety Inc. must make their responsibility to provide comprehensive training on inspecting rope descent systems and fall protection equipment and components before each use an absolute priority."
The investigation further revealed several violations by Sky Safety Inc., including inadequate training, lack of proper equipment protection, and the use of uncertified building anchorage for the rope descent system. As a result, OSHA cited the company for two willful, four serious, and two repeat violations, imposing $447,087 in proposed penalties.
In response to the findings, OSHA Regional Administrator Galen Blanton reiterated the department's commitment to holding employers accountable, stating, "The U.S. Department of Labor will continue to hold employers accountable when they fail to take the necessary steps to protect their workers."
Sky Safety Inc. has been given 15 business days to comply with the citations and penalties, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
This is not the first time Sky Safety Inc., previously known as Hi-Rise Inc., has been cited for similar violations. The company's history of disregarding safety protocols raises concerns about its commitment to employee welfare.
OSHA's investigation serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures in high-risk professions like window cleaning. Employers must prioritize employee safety and ensure compliance with regulations to prevent tragic incidents in the future.
