PORTLAND, Maine (AP) The family of a Maine roofer who died in a fall has filed a $2.5 million wrongful-death suit against his employer.
The Portland Press Herald reports that Alan Loignon’s family says Saco-based contractor, 44-year-old Shawn D. Purvis, discouraged the use of safety equipment so his crews could finish jobs faster.
Loignon fell off a roof in Portland in December. The 30-year-old was not wearing a safety harness.
Purvis has pleaded not guilty to two manslaughter charges in Loignon’s death. The two men were half-brothers.
Purvis has said he cannot force his roofers to use safety gear he provides because they’re self-employed subcontractors.
The state’s labor department and a roofing industry group say general contractors are responsible for worksite safety.
Purvis’ attorney declined to comment on the lawsuit.
