This type of survey is particularly necessary when working with electrical systems which have had a known history of malfunction. The building had a prior history of electrical problems according to the Los Angeles Building and Safety office and the owner of a car dealership located downstairs below the studio.

Discussion: A comprehensive jobsite survey should be conducted by the employer or building owner prior to the start of any work to identify all potential hazards that may confront the workers performing a task at that given site. The building owner refused to be interviewed and would not allow an onsite investigation to take place.

2: Employers should conduct an initial jobsite survey to make sure the work site is a safe place for all employees and subcontractors. As also stated under OSHA Standard 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) section 1926.21 (b) (2): "The employer shall instruct each employee in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions and the regulations applicable to his/her work environment to control or eliminate any hazards or other exposure to illness or injury." Companies should evaluate the tasks performed by workers, identify potential hazards, develop and implement a safety program addressing these hazards, and provide worker training in safe work procedures.