Florida Employer Cited for Fire Safety Violations After Serious Injuries
On July 8th, 2025, the Department of Labor (DOL) announced that an employer in Florida has been cited for serious workplace safety violations by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Two employees of Aerojet Rocketdyne Coleman Aerospace Inc. in Orlando were severely burned in a 2024 fire at one of the company’s facilities. In this article, you will find a more comprehensive overview of the enforcement action taken by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Workplace Safety Violation: Fire Safety Breach
The United States Department of Labor has cited Aerojet Rocketdyne Coleman Aerospace Inc., a target-missile manufacturer, for multiple safety violations following a serious fire at its Orlando facility in December of 2024. Notably, three workers were seriously injured in the fire. Two employees of the company had to be hospitalized due to the severity of their burn injuries. Another worker also required medical attention for burns and smoke inhalation. The sanctions came after an investigation by OSHA. Regulators determined that the company failed to properly store and handle explosive material. It also reportedly failed to identify a highly reactive chemical. The safety oversight contributed to the fire and put workers at serious risk. In total, the employer was issued fines of $262,451. Aerojet Rocketdyne Coleman Aerospace Inc. retains the right to appeal.
An Overview of the Workplace Safety Violations
In this case, the DOL cited the employer for several different workplace safety violations. Here is an overview of some of the specific issues that were found in the OSHA investigation:
- Explosives (29 CFR 1910.109): The regulation mandates safe storage, handling, and transportation of explosives. Some of the key provisions include segregated, approved magazines, appropriate distance between storage of detonators and explosives.
- Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.1200): Under the rule, employers must classify all chemicals. It is especially important for those that are highly reactive or explosive. Employers must also provide clear hazard communication (labels, safety data sheets, etc).
- Process Safety Management (29 CFR 1910.119): The regulation applies when hazardous chemicals are used or stored above threshold quantities. Some of the key elements include hazard analysis, chemical process information, operating controls, mechanical integrity, and emergency response planning.
Employees Have the Right to Report Suspected OSHA Violations
Employees in Florida have the legal right to report suspected OSHA violations without fear of retaliation. If workers believe their employer is not following safety regulations. That includes violations such as improperly storing hazardous materials or failing to communicate chemical risks. Notably, workers can file a complaint directly with the OSHA. Reports can be submitted anonymously to the agency. By law, OSHA is required to investigate credible claims. Federal law protects whistleblowers from being fired, demoted, or disciplined for speaking up. A worker who has faced punishment for reporting a safety issue (either internally within a company or directly to regulators) has the right to file a retaliation claim.
Get Help From an Employment Law Attorney in Florida
Workplace safety matters. Companies and organizations that violate work safety regulations could face serious sanctions. If you have any questions about a workplace safety violation, please do not hesitate to contact a Florida employment attorney for guidance and support.
