OSHA Fines NY’s David H. Koch Theatre $51,000 for Asbestos and Hazards
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts’ David H. Koch Theatreis fined $51,000 for repeat and dangerous work site health and safety violations. The main hazard is fall and crushing dangers and asbestos which workers have complained about. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration discovered that theatre employees were not notified of asbestos exposure; there were no warning signs. The OSHA inspection identified an emergency exit door that was unable to open and unmounted fire extinguisher. The theater had been fined for the same or related violations in the past five years. The inspections also discovered other conditions that pose a risk to the employees. Employees can drop into the orchestra pit when the stage is elevated over the pit and can also risk getting stuck or worse, getting crushed when the stage collapses back down to the pit. The theatre also has temporary wiring in the promenade area. These three violations result in $6,000 in fines and can cause serious injuries or fatalities.
A solution to reduce work site dangers is to create a health and safety program to prevent injury. Management as well as employees work together to recognize and remove hazards on a regular basis.
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