Snohomish roofing firm racks up more safety violations, fined 345K

Allways Roofing, a Snohomish-based roofing company, has become notorious for its extensive history of labor law violations, amassing $4 million in fines over the past 12 years. The latest fine of $345,700 was imposed after regulators observed workers on a Mill Creek job site failing to use fall protection gear while re-roofing a two-story home. Craig Blackwood, assistant director of the agency's Occupational Safety and Health division, highlighted the company's long-standing disregard for safety protocols. Owner Rich Ovak disputes these claims, asserting that Allways Roofing has been closed since January and that attempts to resolve issues with regulators have been unsuccessful. Earlier fines included nearly $500,000 for multiple violations, such as failing to provide eye protection with pneumatic nail guns.

Over the years, at least seven serious injuries have been reported among Allways employees, including five falls and two eye injuries. The Washington State labor department warns that falls are the leading cause of fatalities in the construction sector, with over 1,600 workers injured annually. This situation raises significant concerns about worker safety and regulatory compliance within Washington's construction industry.