Insight Pipe LLC, Workplace Safety Violation, Pennsylvania 2023

In a shocking case of corporate negligence, Insight Pipe LLC, a Harmony, Pennsylvania-based utility contractor, has been sentenced to three years of probation and fined a total of $200,000 for willfully violating a workplace safety regulation that resulted in the death of an employee.

PITTSBURGH – The sentencing was handed down by United States District Judge Stephanie L. Haines in federal court. According to court documents, on April 2, 2018, a member of Insight Pipe’s work crew was electrocuted to death while installing pipe-liner at a job site in Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

The incident occurred when the crew’s telehandler came into contact with an overhead energized power line, causing the worker’s fatal electrocution. Under applicable federal safety regulations, the telehandler had to maintain a clearance of ten feet from the power line.

Insight Pipe pleaded guilty to violating the workplace safety regulation, and as part of its plea agreement, the company agreed to pay a criminal fine of $20,000 and settle an administrative case with the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) for $180,000.

Assistant United States Attorney Michael Leo Ivory prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung commended OSHA for their investigation, which led to the successful prosecution of Insight Pipe LLC.

Defendant: Insight Pipe LLC

Criminal Charges: Willfully violating a workplace safety regulation

City and State: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Date: April 2, 2018

Sentence: Three years of probation, $200,000 fine

Dollar Amounts: $20,000 (criminal fine), $180,000 (OSHA settlement)

Before imposing the sentence, Judge Haines acknowledged Insight Pipe’s efforts to improve its safety protocols following the accident.

Insight Pipe’s sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of corporate negligence and the importance of prioritizing workplace safety.

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