The owner of a construction company in Somerset County, New Jersey, faces probation and fines for lying to investigators over serious injuries suffered by two of his workers.
Robert Riley – who owns RSR Home Construction LLC in Far Hills – admitted to one count of felony perjury in U.S. District Court after admitting he lied to officials from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Investigation began after two workers were hurt
OSHA began an investigation into Riley’s company in May 2018 after two workers – in separate incidents – were seriously injured after falling through a skylight while they were making roof repairs. Investigators determined the workers were not properly trained, and that the company took no measures to protect them.
During a deposition for OSHA’s investigation, Riley denied that he had authorized or instructed his employees to make repairs to the roof. However, the agency later found text messages showing he told one worker to begin work on the section of the roof where the injuries occurred.
Employers must ensure workers are protected
OSHA cited RSR Home Construction for four serious violations – one willful – and administered a fine of $50,000. After pleading guilty, Riley was sentenced to two years of probation and fined $5,500 for lying under oath.
The 1970 Occupational Safety and Health Act requires employers to provide healthful and safe working conditions for their employees. Construction workers are exposed to a multitude of risks on the job and can suffer serious injuries. If you or a loved one is affected, an experienced lawyer will protect your right to be fairly compensated.