A Virginia highway contractor has received what could be the largest proposed fine for violating new federal rules protecting construction workers from silica dust.
Lanford Brothers Co. Inc. of Roanoke, Va., faces penalties of $304,130, for alleged violations of the silica rule, including three deemed willful, according to the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry, which enforces workplace safety regulations in the state.
According to national enforcement data collected by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the fine against Lanford may be the largest proposed penalty for violating the silica rule since states ...