It is always disappointing to cite a company for hazards they previously committed to correcting in their facility… Lack of machine safety procedures can lead to amputation and other debilitating injuries” – Howard Eberts, OSHA area director in Cleveland
OSHA – On June 20th, The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued 3 repeated and 8 serious violations to a manufacturing company in Ohio. In total, the proposed penalties reached $99,000. The initial inspection of the facility was conducted in January after OSHA received a complaint from an employee alleging unsafe working conditions.
OSHA inspectors discovered that the company failed to:
- Conduct annual inspections of energy control procedures to prevent unintentional machine operation
- Properly install electrical equipment
- Effectively guard machine operating parts
- Provide workers with the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Train workers on the proper handling and use of hazardous chemicals in the facility
These are the same violations OSHA cited the company for in 2012. The clear and willful disregard for worker safety resulted in the repeated and serious violations issued to the employer. Whether or not injuries during that period were due to the lack of safety improvements, these regulations are established to prevent catastrophic injury or even death. The time, energy and costs associated with implementing the necessary safety measures are insignificant in comparison to the cost of a serious injury or fatality. It is in the best interest of the company to ensure all safety standards and procedures are within or above compliance.
If you are unsure whether or not you meet OSHA and local standards, The Integrated Group offers on-site audits and safety program reviews. For more information, feel free to contact our team at 425-822-8500 or info@theintegratedgroup.com.
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