Workers at a nearby airport are in danger of potential fire hazards, according to a federal regulatory agency. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued Notices of Unsafe or Unhealthful Working Conditions to the Lakefront Airport Air Traffic Control Tower in New Orleans.
OSHA began its inspection last September and found six repeat violations and one serious violation at the control tower. The six repeat violations included:
· Improper use of electrical equipment
· Failing to correct deficiencies in the fire alarm system
· Failing to provide a facility emergency action plan
· Failing to ensure fire drills are performed
The serious notice was for failing to provide a facility compliance program. OSHA issues a serious notice when there is a substantial probability of death or serious injury from a hazard that the employer should have known about.
The tower falls under the umbrella of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which must comply with the same safety standards as private sector employers. OSHA cannot issue monetary penalties against another federal agency. The FAA has 15 days to comply with the issued notices or request a hearing in Baton Rouge.
Employees have a right to a safe working environment free of safety hazards. Contact a New Orleans injury lawyer if you suffer injuries on the job from your employer’s negligence or carelessness. A New Orleans injury attorney can help you recover financial compensation for your injuries.