Fire Safety Failures Cost Nearly $200, 000 in Fines

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration handed out a hefty penalty to the owner of Gabriel House, an assisted‑living center in Fall River, Massachusetts. The fine totals almost $200, 000 and follows a deadly blaze that claimed ten lives last summer. OSHA listed 13 infractions, with eleven classified as serious violations. The owner disputes the charges, but the agency remains firm on its findings. Key problems cited by OSHA include a lack of fire evacuation drills for staff, unsanitary conditions in rooms and hallways, and exits that were either too narrow or not clearly marked. Exposed wiring and even dead mice in an electrical panel were also noted, pointing to serious maintenance lapses. Staff members had not received training on how to guide residents during an emergency, nor were they made aware of potential fire hazards.Other violations involved improper stair design—specifically, uneven riser heights that could cause falls—and missing safety signage such as “Not an Exit” markers. Electrical equipment was left unprotected, increasing the risk of accidental contact. The facility also failed to maintain a written hazard communication program and did not submit required injury reports in a timely manner. The July 13 fire, the deadliest in Massachusetts in over forty years, underscored a broader issue: assisted‑living homes often lack stringent regulatory oversight. Many residents are low‑income or disabled, making them especially vulnerable when safety protocols break down. The state fire marshal suggested the blaze may have started from a cigarette or an electrical fault in an oxygen machine, but the exact cause remains unclear. This case highlights the critical need for regular safety audits and comprehensive training in care facilities. Without strict enforcement, residents remain at risk of preventable tragedies.