Following the death of a 32-year-old Dunbarton, N.H. laborer, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Schnabel Foundation Co. for failing to protect its employees against crushing hazards while installing permanent foundation supports beneath the Woburn, Mass., Public Library.

The company faces up to $212,396 in proposed penalties in connection with the death of Mark Camire, who was working beneath the library on July 11 when a 2,600-lb rock dislodged from the building’s foundation, crushing him to death.

The foundation work was part of a $31.5-million library renovation. Consigli Construction, the lead contractor, had a topping off ceremony on Dec. 8 for the project scheduled for completion by fall of this year, according to public record.

In a Jan. 5 statement, the administration said “the contractor [Schnabel] was also cited for failing to instruct employees to recognize and avoid unsafe conditions while working beneath the foundation. OSHA cited the company for similar hazards in 2015 when an employee was pinned by a granite block that came loose.”

“Failure to supply proper safeguards and training has led to a needless and avoidable death,” said OSHA Andover Area Office Director Anthony Covello. “It is imperative that employers train their employees, and equip them with the necessary tools to prevent crushing and other hazards.”

In a prepared statement ENR received on Jan. 12, Schnabel Foundation Company stated it is aware of the OSHA news release of January 5, 2018.  

“Schnabel cannot respond fully to the release at this time, and in particular to the quote of the area director therein, since the OSHA matter is still ongoing. Schnabel will respond formally and fully in the proper forum per the OSHA regulations that afford Schnabel proper due process. Schnabel remains dedicated to all aspects of job site safety and for the well-being of all its employees.”