OSHA and the Stone Restoration Contractor
By Fred Hueston
Do I Really Need to Worry About OSHA?
Let’s get this out of the way right up front: yes, you do need to be concerned about OSHA. Even if you’re a one-person show working out of your van, doing mostly high-end kitchen countertops in private homes, OSHA is still something you need to understand.
That doesn’t mean they’re going to kick your door down tomorrow, but ignoring them completely? That’s a mistake that could cost you big—financially and legally.
Let’s break it down.
1. Residential Work: Am I Really on OSHA’s Radar?
Here’s the good news: If you’re working in a single-family, owner-occupied residence, OSHA usually doesn’t have jurisdiction. OSHA regulations are designed to protect employees, and in many of these cases, you’re the only employee. So, if you’re a sole proprietor with no workers, OSHA likely isn’t coming for you just for polishing a marble vanity.
BUT, and this is a big but—once you have employees or subcontractors, or you’re doing work that involves dust, noise, or chemicals for more than a couple days, you’re responsible under OSHA’s general duty clause.
Example:
If you’re wet-grinding terrazzo with a helper and that helper isn’t wearing eye protection or a dust mask, and something happens? That’s on you. And yes—if there’s an injury or complaint, OSHA could cite you.
2. Commercial Properties That Are Already Open: Where Things Get Real
Working in a commercial building—hotel lobby, retail store, or office—that’s open for business? OSHA absolutely applies.
Even if it’s overnight work, and the space is closed to the public, if you’re:
- Using machines
- Handling chemicals
- Running cords or hoses
You need to follow OSHA basics:
- Label all chemicals (yes, even spray bottles you mixed yourself)
- Keep cords taped down or out of walkways
- Use PPE (gloves, goggles, proper shoes)
- Train all workers on what they’re using
Scenario:
If a janitor slips on slurry runoff from your floor machine and you didn’t cordon off the area? That’s not just a lawsuit—it’s a possible OSHA citation.
3. Construction Sites: OSHA’s Backyard
Doing restoration on new builds, remodels, or major renovations? OSHA enforcement is more aggressive in these environments.
Once you’re on a job site with general contractors and multiple trades, you’re under the same OSHA umbrella.
You need:
- A written hazard communication program
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on-site for every chemical
- Proper PPE for everyone
- Fall protection for elevated work areas
- Basic site orientation or safety meetings
Important: Don’t assume the general contractor’s safety plan covers you. If your team creates a hazard, OSHA can cite you directly.
4. “I’ve Been Fine So Far” Isn’t a Safety Plan
Too many contractors think, “I’ve done this for 15 years with no problems.” That’s not a safety plan—it’s gambling.
OSHA compliance isn’t red tape—it’s a smart way to:
- Avoid lawsuits
- Protect your crew
- Safeguard your business
One incident, one mistake, and you could face serious fines or an injured client or worker.
5. So What Should You Actually Do?
Start with the basics. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Know your chemicals – keep SDS on-site and label all containers
- Train your workers – even one helper should know how to use equipment and PPE
- Mark your work area – use tape, signs, cones
- Use PPE – gloves, goggles, ear and respiratory protection
- Create a simple written safety plan
- Maintain records – track training, inspections, meetings
It’s Not Just About Fines
At the end of the day, OSHA is about safety. That means your safety, your team’s, your clients’, and even the random guy who trips over your cord.
Whether you’re grinding granite in a powder room or restoring terrazzo in an airport, you are responsible for jobsite safety.
And OSHA doesn’t care if you’re a corporation or a one-man operation. They care if someone gets hurt.
So don’t wait for an accident or complaint to get serious about compliance. Start now. Start small. Just start.
Your reputation—and your wallet—will thank you.
