By now most people have probably heard about the tragic building collapse in Pennsylvania that took the lives of several people and injured others. Since the collapse, at least one investigation, by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has commenced regarding the incident. It has also prompted the city of Philadelphia to take a closer look at the safety measures being taken at other demolition sites.

There were apparently known issues regarding safety at the site of the collapse. According to a spokesperson for the U.S. Labor Department, a complaint was filed with OSHA last month indicating that there was a risk of falling for individuals working at the site. At the time the wall fell, that particular complaint had not been resolved. It is unclear who filed it.

The investigation OSHA is conducting will likely uncover any safety violations that were allowed to take place at the site of the workplace accident. It is possible that the agency's investigation will be aided by a video of work being done at the site a few days before the collapse occurred. The video reportedly shows the following potential safety violations taking place:

• Bricks allowed to fall onto an uncovered walkway that was open to pedestrians
• A wall taller than the prescribed height allowed to stand without a brace

It is unclear how long it will take for OSHA to complete its investigation. Depending on what it uncovers, the demolition company could face fines. Based on preliminary information provided in the video as well as concerning the owner of the demolition company, such sanctions seem likely.

Source: Fox News, "Philadelphia officials look for cause of deadly building collapse," Associated Press, June 7, 2013