OSHA has cited Keystone Stucco Inc. of Olathe, Kan., for two repeat and one serious violation based on a December 2010 inspection in which employees were observed working from scaffolding without proper fall protection. The agency has proposed a total of $147,000 in penalties.

"There is no excuse for employees to be exposed to such hazards. Scaffold accidents are a leading cause of construction-related injuries and fatalities," said Charles Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City, Mo. "It is imperative that employers take the necessary steps to eliminate hazards and provide a safe working environment for all of their employees."

The company's repeat violations are similar to others previously cited for lack of safe access and egress to a scaffold structure, and not protecting employees from falls when working at heights from a scaffold structure.

The serious violation addresses hazards associated with improper use of a portable ladder and a failure to adequately train personnel in ladder use.