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Cullman, AL (WorkersCompensation.com) – A 15-year-old immigrant died Monday in a roofing accident on his first day at work, authorities in Alabama said.
The underage boy, who was not identified because of his age, was working for W&W Restoration, a subcontractor for Apex Roofing, as a construction worker on a roofing project, according to police. Both the boy, and his brother, with whom he was living, worked for W&W Restoration.
According to reports, the boy fell through an unsupported section of the roof and was declared dead at the scene. Although there were safety harnesses for workers at the scene, it was not being used by workers, police said. The harnesses were attached to the roof and could have prevented the boy from falling.
Spokesman for the Cullman Police Department Lt. Todd Chiaranda did not immediately return requests for comment, but Chiaranda told AL.com that the boy was a Guatemalan native. While foul play is not suspected, the incident is being investigated by the Department of Labor to see whether or not there is any blame for the company hiring an underage worker.
A search for a W&W Restoration in Alabama resulted in no companies by that name. The closest W&W Restoration was located in Eatonton, Georgia. Calls to that W&W Restoration were not immediately returned. Calls to Apex Roofing were directed to Edward Merrell, the company’s attorney, who did not immediately respond to calls for comment.
“The state of Alabama has regulations in relation to the employment of juveniles, however, Apex’s policy is to not hire anyone under the age of 19," Merrell said in a statement, according to WIAT in Birmingham. "Apex also requires their subcontractors to comply with all state regulations and we learn a subcontractor does not follow state and federal regulations, Apex does not continue doing work with those subcontractors.”
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About The Author
About The Author
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Liz Carey
Liz Carey has worked as a writer, reporter and editor for nearly 25 years. First, as an investigative reporter for Gannett and later as the Vice President of a local Chamber of Commerce, Carey has covered everything from local government to the statehouse to the aerospace industry. Her work as a reporter, as well as her work in the community, have led her to become an advocate for the working poor, as well as the small business owner.
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