In December 2013, a temporary worker at a New Jersey bottling plant was injured after falling from a ladder. The incident resulted in a number of fines levied against the bottling company and a temporary worker agency by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
A statement in the news release, made by the director of OSHA’s Parsippany Area Office pointed out that employers as well as staffing agencies are equally responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all workers. Employers should endeavor to protect both permanent and temporary workers from potential hazards.
The company, Maplewood Beverage Packers LLC, and the temp agency, Corporate Resource Services Corp., became the subject of an OHSA investigation after the incident occurred. According to a news release, OSHA has proposed over $180,000 in fines against both employers for “willful and repeat violations.” The release stated that Maplewood Beverage Packers is the target of the majority of the damages, facing $171,270 in penalties proposed. Fines that might be levied against Corporate Resources amount to $11,000.
Individuals who suffer injury in workplace accidents, such as the employee in this 2013 case, might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits from an employer’s insurance providers. However, many individuals who attempt to file claims for compensation may be denied or faced with delays.
When this occurs, an injured victim seeking might benefit from scheduling a consultation with a local attorney who might be familiar with workers’ compensation claims. That attorney may be able to offer advice and representation to the client while pursuing benefits that might cover the lost wages, medical expenses and other damages stemming from the accident.
Source: NJ BIZ, “OSHA cites two N.J. companies over worker’s injury“, Eric Strauss, June 18, 2014