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OSHA Guidance and
Emphasis Programs for the Death Care Industry
February
2012
OSHA reminds employers to post injury/illness summaries beginning Feb. 1.
Employers must post OSHA's Form 300A from Feb. 1 to April 30
in a common area wherever notices to workers are usually posted.
The summary must list the total numbers of job-related injuries and
illnesses that occurred in 2011. Copies of the OSHA Forms are available
for download from OSHA's Recordkeeping webpage...
January
31 2012
New short videos from OSHA provide training to help inform workers on
the proper use of respirators. The Occupational Safety and
Health Administration has posted a series of 17 videos to help workers
learn about the proper use of respirators on the job. These short
videos, nine in English and eight in Spanish, provide valuable
information to workers in general industry and construction. Topics
include OSHA's Respiratory Standard, respirator use, training,
fit-testing and detecting counterfeit respirators...
January
2012
OSHA publishes Illness and Injury Prevention Programs White Paper
January
2012
OSHA posts Summary Report of Stakeholder Meeting on Preventing
Occupational Hearing Loss
January
2012
OSHA Web page offers information to protect workers during winter storm
response and recovery operations
December
21 2011
OSHA aims to protect workers during winter storms.
November
9 2011
Statement from Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA on increase of
nonfatal occupational injuries among health care workers.
October
20 2011
Statement from Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis on reported decline in
workplace injuries and illnesses.
October
17 2011
New small businesses document explains OSHA's respiratory protection
standard.
October
6 2011
OSHA invites interested parties to participate in an informal
stakeholder meeting on preventing occupational hearing loss.
October
6 2011
OSHA to host conversation with stakeholders on occupational hearing
loss.
October
3 2011
OSHA publishes new educational materials on working safely during
trenching operations.
September
15 2011
OSHA launches new Workplace Violence Web Page.
September
9 2011
OSHA issues 2011 annual inspection plan for protecting workers in
high-hazard workplaces.
September
8 2011
OSHA issues compliance directive to address workplace violence.
August
23 2011
US Department of Labor improves enforcement database.
August 2011
New comprehensive OSHA Web page on preventing work-related hearing loss
contains a wealth of information to help businesses and workers.
August 2011
NIOSH STOP STICKS campaign aims to reduce exposures to bloodborne
pathogens.
August
11 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA releases mobile app to help protect
workers from heat-related illnesses.
As part of continuing educational efforts by the U.S. Department of
Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration about the dangers
of extreme heat, Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced a
free application for mobile devices that will enable workers and
supervisors to monitor the heat index at their work sites in order to
prevent heat-related illnesses. The app, available in English and
Spanish, combines heat index data from the U.S. National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration with the user’s location to determine
necessary protective measures...
July
20 2011
Statement by Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis on continued heat waves
sweeping the country.
July
15 2011
Water, rest and shade: Protecting workers from heat-related illness.
July
5 2011
OSHA schedules stakeholder meetings to discuss
occupational exposure to infectious diseases.
June
28 2011
OSHA launches interactive Web site to help employers
better comply with its recordkeeping rule.
June
22 2011
OSHA seeks comments on proposed updates, revisions to the
occupational injury and illness tracking and reporting requirements.
June
16 2011
OSHA releases bookmark explaining young workers' rights.
June
16 2011
Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis and ambassadors of Guatemala and
Nicaragua sign declarations protecting migrant workers' rights.
June 16 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA conducting inspections focused on powered
industrial truck hazards in Alabama,
Mississippi,
Florida
and Georgia.
May
26 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA announces final rule affecting respiratory
protection, slings, exposure and medical records, and other standards.
May
23 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA launches national survey on employers'
safety and health practices to help guide future rules, compliance,
outreach
May
16 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA reopens public record on proposed
record-keeping rule to add work-related musculoskeletal disorders
OSHA estimates that 1.505 million recordable MSDs are expected to occur
annually among 1.542 million affected establishments and that the
annualized costs of the proposed rule would be $1.7 million per year for
all affected establishments combined. The U.S. Department of Labor's
Occupational Safety and Health Administration tomorrow will reopen the
public record on a proposed rule to revise the Occupational Injury and
Illness Recording and Reporting Requirements regulation on May 17.
"OSHA is eager to hear from the public on this, and every, proposed
rule," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety
and Health Dr. David Michaels." The more feedback the agency
receives from small businesses on this topic, the better informed we
will be in crafting a proposed regulation that protects workers without
overburdening employers..."
May 2011
New Injury and Illness Prevention Programs Web page now online
OSHA has a new Injury
and Illness Prevention Programs Web page to provide easy to use,
informative and useful guidance on how to implement an effective system
for finding and fixing workplace safety and health hazards. Injury and
illness prevention programs, known by a variety of names, are universal
interventions that can substantially reduce the number and severity of
workplace injuries and alleviate the associated financial burdens on
U.S. workplaces. Many states have requirements or voluntary guidelines
for workplace injury and illness prevention programs. Also, numerous
employers in the United States already manage safety using injury and
illness prevention programs and OSHA believes that all employers can and
should do the same. As OSHA Assistant Secretary David Michaels put it,
"Injury and illness prevention programs are good for workers, good
for business and good for America."
April
2011
Employers: Be sure to post injury and illness summaries now until April
30, 2011
(Form 300A PDF
382kb)
April
26 2011
US Labor Department launches national outreach campaign to protect
workers from heat-related illnesses.
March
25 2011
New guidance documents explain importance of testing in reducing,
preventing worker exposure to respiratory hazards.
March
23 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA to hold teleconferences for small businesses
to provide input on proposed column for employer injury and illness
logs. Small businesses from around the country are
encouraged to participate in a series of three teleconferences to
provide input on OSHA's proposal to add a column for work-related
musculoskeletal disorders on employer injury and illness logs.
March
1 2011
North Carolina issues forklift hazard alert to prevent workplace
injuries and deaths. North Carolina's Occupational Safety
and Health Division published a hazard
alert* on the dangers of forklifts and materials handling.
February
15 2011
Statement from assistant secretary of labor for OSHA supporting
promotion of job creation
Agency doing everything possible to support good, safe jobs
February
15 2011
OSHA issues enforcement guidance on personal protective equipment to
protect general industry workers' safety, health. The
Occupational Safety and Health Administration today issued the Enforcement
Guidance for Personal Protective Equipment in General Industry*, a
directive that provides enforcement personnel with instructions for
determining whether employers have complied with OSHA personal
protective equipment (PPE) standards. The directive was effective Feb.
10. Changes in this directive include clarifying what type of PPE
employers must provide at no cost to workers and when employers are
required and not required to pay for PPE.
February
11 2011
OSHA respiratory protection video discusses proper respirator use for
healthcare workers.
January
25 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA temporarily withdraws proposed column for
work-related musculoskeletal disorders, reaches out to small businesses.
"Work-related musculoskeletal disorders remain the leading cause of
workplace injury and illness in this country, and this proposal is an
effort to assist employers and OSHA in better identifying problems in
workplaces," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational
Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "However, it is clear that
the proposal has raised concern among small businesses, so OSHA is
facilitating an active dialogue between the agency and the small
business community."
January
19 2011
40th Anniversary Speakers Series: Granting Basic Rights to American
Workers.
January
19 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA withdraws proposed interpretation on
occupational noise
Agency examines other approaches to prevent work-related hearing loss.
December
29 2010
US Labor Department's OSHA reminds employers of hazards associated with
snow cleanup, urges proper worker safeguards. In light of the
recent blizzard and in anticipation of more winter storms, the U.S.
Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration
wants to remind workers, employers and the general public of the hazards
associated with snow removal and recovery work. "Cleaning up
after a storm encompasses a variety of tasks, each of which can carry
risks if performed incorrectly or without proper safeguards," said
Robert Kulick, OSHA's regional administrator in New York. "We want
people to know what those risks are and what steps they can take to
protect themselves against these hazards." Common hazards can
include:..
December
6 2010
OSHA extends comment period to March 21, 2011, announces stakeholder
meeting on noise control interpretation. "We're very
eager to get input from those parties who would be affected by this
proposed interpretation," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant
secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "We have by
no means completed our review of the issue and seek to make an informed
decision that is in the best interest of protecting workers, yet
sensitive to the operating changes businesses would need to make. There
is sufficient evidence that hearing protection alone cannot prevent
workers from suffering preventable hearing loss."
November
30 2010
Michaels informs national conference of public health professionals
about OSHA's efforts to update chemical exposure limits.
OSHA Assistant Secretary David Michaels participated in a panel discussion
Nov. 8 in Denver at the American Public Health Association's annual
meeting. He shared with the audience OSHA's efforts to address the
agency's outdated workplace chemicals Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs).
Most of OSHA's PELs
were adopted when the agency was first created and have remained
unchanged even though health data indicates many chemicals pose hazards
to workers at levels below those permitted by many of OSHA's PELs. OSHA
held a web forum in August to solicit nominations on the top chemicals
of concern and received more than 130
nominations for OSHA to focus its initial efforts...
October
22 2010
OSHA targets high-hazard worksites for inspection.
Establishments are randomly selected for inspection from an initial list
of 4,100 manufacturing, non-manufacturing, and nursing and personal care
facilities...
October
21 2010
Statement of Labor Secretary Hilda L. Solis on reported decline in
workplace injuries and illnesses. "While the reported decline in workplace injuries and
illnesses is encouraging, 3.3 million workplace injuries and illnesses are
3.3 million too many. No worker should fear being injured or made sick for
a paycheck...
October
19 2010
OSHA's Official Interpretation of Provisions for Feasible Administrative
or Engineering Controls of Occupational Noise.
OSHA is proposing to amend its current enforcement
policy to reflect the interpretation of the term "feasible
administrative or engineering controls" as used in the current
occupational noise exposure standards....
October
19 2010
OSHA seeks comments on its official interpretation of workplace noise
exposure controls. Comments on the
interpretation must be submitted on or before Dec. 20, 2010....
October
15 2010
Michaels shares vision for transforming OSHA to meet future challenges.
OSHA Assistant Secretary sent a letter Oct. 15 outlining the progress
being made in transforming the way the agency addresses workplace
hazards...
October
15 2010
Tom Galassi, head of OSHA's Directorate of Enforcement programs, shares
the top 10 most frequently cited standards.
October
15 2010
OSHA rolls out presidential initiative to improve federal worker safety.
October
15 2010
OSHA adjusts focus of accurate recordkeeping emphasis program.
OSHA adjusted the targeting criteria for new inspections under its ongoing
National Recordkeeping Emphasis Program. The NEP is scheduled to run
through February 2010...
October
15 2010
OSHA increases enforcement against serious safety and health violators.
The increase in significant and
egregious cases demonstrates OSHA's commitment to aggressively enforcing
its standards...
October
15 2010
Michaels shares goals for protecting workers at national safety
conference. OSHA
Assistant Secretary David Michaels shared the Obama Administration's
vision for government agencies at the National Safety Council's 2010
Congress & Expos. Michaels told the audience of about 10,000
safety and health professionals and industrial hygienists that OSHA and
NIOSH believe the key to worker safety and health is focusing on
prevention and shifting the burden of worker protection to employers...
October
15 2010
Michaels tells steelworkers OSHA is committed to creating and enforcing
standards that will save lives. OSHA Assistant Secretary David
Michaels told the audience at a United Steelworkers Health, Safety and
Environment Conference in Pittsburgh that OSHA is returning to basics to
protect the safety and health of workers on the job. He stressed the need
to expand OSHA's enforcement powers and penalty amounts through
legislative reform such as the Protecting America's Workers Act...
October
4 2010
U.S. Labor Department's reaches out to prevent distracted driving.
Agency launches online resource for Drive Safely to Work Week.
September
212010
OSHA announces partnership with Department of Transportation to combat
distracted driving. Employers who organize work so that
texting is a practical necessity, even if not a formal requirement,
violate the OSH Act.
August
2010
OSHA issues annual inspection plan under the Site-Specific Targeting
2010 program to help the agency direct enforcement resources.
Establishments are randomly selected from a list of manufacturing,
non-manufacturing, and nursing and personal care facilities.
July
19 2010
Obama issues memorandum on Presidential POWER Initiative: Protecting Our
Workers and Ensuring Reemployment
July
7 2010
Whistleblowers.gov offers quick access to whistleblower protection
information
June
21 2010
OSHA to hold additional stakeholder meeting on worker injury and illness
prevention rule
June
18 2010
OSHA's severe violator enforcement directive effective June 18
June
11 2010
New OSHA training emphasizes workers rights
Training
Requirements in OSHA Standards and Training Guidelines
May 24 2010
OSHA
publishes proposed rulemaking to prevent injuries from slips, trips and
falls on walking-working surfaces
May 14 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA conducting review of its Bloodborne Pathogens
Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030)
May 6 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA requests information on exposure to
infectious agents in healthcare settings
May 4 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA holds series of stakeholder meeting on worker
Injury and Illness Prevention Programs
April 29 2010
Statement
of US Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis on Protecting America's Workers
Act
April 27 2010
US
assistant secretary of labor for OSHA to testify today on strengthening
enforcement and ensuring safe workplaces for every American worker
April 22 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA takes action to protect America's workers
with severe violator program and increased penalties
April 14 2010
Secretary
of Labor Hilda L. Solis convenes 1st every national action summit on
health and safety of Latino workers
March 18 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA announces informal public hearing on hazard
communication in Pittsburgh on March 31
March 17 2010
US
Assistance Secretary of labor for OSHA testifies on proposed Protecting
America's Workers Act (PAWA) before House subcommittee.
PAWA would raise penalties, strengthen workers' voices in the
workplace, expand the rights of victims and their families, and provide
other new rules that would grant greater power to OSHA.
March 9 2010
OSHA
notifies 15,000 workplaces of high injury and illness rates
January 28 2010
OSHA
proposes revised Recordkeeping regulation to better identify
work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD's)
January 27 2010
OSHA
withdraws proposed rule for additional quantitative fit-testing
protocols for the Respiratory Protection Standard
January 27 2010
OSHA
releases workplace injury and illness information representing
administration's "Open Government" policy
January 8 2010
New
OSHA videos provide respirator and facemask safety guidance
January 7 2010
OSHA
announces informal public hearing on hazard communication rule
November
23 2009
OSHA
focuses local emphasis program on general industry establishments with
noise, respiratory hazards.
October 1 2009
OSHA
issues proposed rule to adopt the Globally Harmonized Hazard
Communication System. A proposed rule to align
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Hazard Communication
Standard (HCS) with provisions of the United Nations Globally Harmonized
System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GCS) ...
September 30 2009
Notice
of Injury and Illness Recordkeeping National Emphasis Program
September 15 2009
OSHA
document describes silica control. A guidance
document has been recently published by the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration that addresses the control of worker exposure to
dust containing crystalline silica, known to cause lung disease...
September 9 2009
OSHA
issues final rule updating personal protective equipment standards.
The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) today published in the Federal Register a final
rule revising the personal protective equipment (PPE) sections of
standards concerning requirements for eye- and face- protective devices,
and head and foot protection ...
August 21 2009
Amending
OSHA's penalty adjustment factors. Standard
interpretation letter to National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA).
Recent OSHA Citations
related to the Death Care Industry
January 26 2012
OSHA
proposes $55,375 in penalties for trenching hazards to Memphis, Tenn.,
contractor.
January 26 2012
Administrative
law judge orders Newport, Del.-based Daisy Construction to pay $59,000
for trenching violations.
January 26 2012
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Ashland, NH, contractor for cave-in
hazards at Wolfeboro worksite; Hiltz Construction faces $51,260 in
proposed fines.
January 25 2012
US
Labor Department's OSHA proposes $169,000 in fines to Hartford, Conn.,
contractor for exposing workers to cave-in hazards.
January 19 2012
Georgia
contractor cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for knowingly exposing
workers to cave-in hazard; nearly $54,000 proposed in fines.
January 18 2012
US
Department of Labor's OSHA issues notices to veterans health care system
of multiple safety and health violations found at St. Cloud, Minn.,
facility.
January 13 2012
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites American Marazzi Tile for exposing
workers to excessive noise levels, lack of machine guarding and other
hazards. Sunnyvale, Texas-based tile manufacturer faces proposed
fines of $318,000.
January 10 2012
Louisiana
pipeline construction company cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for
trenching violations in Georgia; proposed fines total $140,000.
OSHA began its inspection when an agency investigator noticed that the
employer had failed to provide a safe means of egress from a
5-foot-10-inch trench and protect workers from a cave-in hazard. OSHA
standards mandate that all excavations 5 feet or deeper be protected
against collapse...
January 10 2012
US
Labor Department's OSHA proposes more than $125,000 in fines to Palmyra,
NJ, linen rental company for workplace safety and health hazards.
Violations involve failing to provide protection from electrical
hazards; develop and implement written respiratory protection, hazard
communication and confined space entry programs; provide machine
guarding; provide guardrails; conduct a personal protective equipment
hazard assessment; ensure the safe use of ladders and forklifts; provide
lockout/tagout, respirator, hazard communication and fire extinguisher
training; provide an eyewash station; provide mounted fire
extinguishers; various electrical hazards; incomplete record keeping for
the OSHA 300 injury and illness logs...
January 10 2012
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Newton, NJ, manufacturer for workplace
safety and health violations, proposes nearly $49,000 in fines.
Violations involve obstructed exit routes; lack of proper machine
guarding; failing to implement a hearing conservation program that
includes noise monitoring, audiometric testing and training; properly
mount and identify portable fire extinguishers; provide powered
industrial truck training; implement a hazard communication program that
includes training; ensure proper use and listing of electrical
equipment; ensure compressed air was reduced to 30 pounds per square
inch; failing to record workplace injuries and illnesses on the OSHA 300
log...
January 10 2012
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites New Windsor, NY, felt manufacturer for
repeat and serious safety hazards; more than $146,000 proposed in
penalties. Inspections identified numerous safety
and health hazards, including exposing employees to possible
electrocution, crushing and struck-by injuries, being caught in moving
machine parts, hearing loss, falls, eye and hand injuries...
January 4 2012
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Conway Stores Inc. for locked emergency
exits and other hazards at its East Fordham Rd. store in the Bronx. Proposed
fines total $90,000. OSHA's inspection revealed
several instances where emergency exit doors in the store were padlocked
during work hours and emergency exit routes were obstructed by racks of
clothing and boxes of stock, conditions that would have prevented or
impeded employees' swift exit of the workplace in the event of a fire or
other emergency. In addition, a cardboard baler was operated with its
door open exposing employees to crushing hazards; an unsecured
compressed gas cylinder was exposed to damage; and the store lacked a
continuing and effective extermination program for rats and vermin...
December 28 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites The Davey Tree Surgery Co. for safety
violations after worker fatality at Idaho City, Idaho, job site.
The company is part of Kent, Ohio-based The Davey Tree Expert Co.
Citations have been issued for failing to have adequate first-aid
supplies, ensure that workers maintain a safe distance from trees being
felled, evaluate the work area prior to the tree being felled, provide
training for tool and equipment use, and provide training for
determining tree length...
December 21 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $144,760 in penalties to Houston,
Texas, recycling plant for exposing workers to multiple safety and
health hazards. Petag was cited for failing to
provide personal protective equipment; provide hazard communication
training; ensure the use of seatbelts while operating a forklift;
provide sanitary washing facilities as well as access to eyewash and
shower stations; provide fall protection; provide required information
for voluntary respirator use; injury and illness record-keeping
deficiencies...
December 21 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites rubber parts fabricator Acme Machell
Co. in Waukesha, Wis., for safety and health violations; proposed
penalties total $77,600. OSHA opened inspections
after receiving complaints alleging burn hazards and poor housekeeping
throughout the plant. Violations include failing to implement a hazard
communication plan, train first-aid responders on an exposure control
plan to protect against exposure to bloodborne pathogens and diseases,
offer hepatitis B vaccines to designated first-aid responders, review or
update the exposure control plan, maintain a list of chemicals being
used in the facility along with relevant material data safety sheets;
failing to properly maintain fire extinguishers; failing to maintain
adequate air pressure in air nozzles used for cleaning; electrical
deficiencies, failing to evaluate and audit energy control procedures
annually; failing to adequately train workers on hazardous energy
control procedures...
December 21 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites excavation and utilities company
following fatality in Gordon, Texas; proposed penalties total
$118,580. Violations include failing to test
for atmospheric conditions and provide adequate ventilation and
emergency retrieval equipment prior to entry into a manhole; failing to
provide or require the use of respirators as well as conduct an
assessment to determine the potential for a hazardous atmosphere where
oxygen deficiency, methane and/or hydrogen sulfide were present or
likely to be present...
December 7 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Central Transport International in
Hillside, Ill., for unsafe forklifts and other safety violations; proposed
penalties total 164,800. Violations involve
allowing workers to operate unsafe forklifts and failing to provide
proper eyewash facilities for workers exposed to corrosive chemicals,
among others...
December 5 2011
Miami,
Fla., contractor cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for willful and
serious violations following carbon monoxide incident. Trans
Florida Development Corp. faces proposed penalties of $66,990 following
an incident that occurred in June at a work site. A worker using a
powered saw to cut a hole in a storm drain box was overexposed to carbon
monoxide from the saw and had to be taken to a hospital for treatment.
Citations were issued for failing to evaluate the job site and implement
procedures to ensure workers were not exposed to toxic substances while
working in a confined space...
December 1 2011
Waymar
Construction Co. in Shelby, Ohio faces $30,500 for child labor and
safety violations after 16-year-old injured on job site.
The U.S. Department of Labor has cited Waymar Construction LLC in
Shelby for child labor and safety violations after a 16-year-old worker
suffered cranial trauma and fractures from falling off a scissor lift.
The division found that Waymar Construction violated the FLSA's child
labor standards by employing a worker less than 18 years old to perform
hazardous jobs prohibited by the act. Waymar Construction also was found
to be in violation of the overtime provisions of the FLSA, for paying
workers "straight time" wages for hours worked over 40 in a
week...
November 21 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Paterson, NJ, company $126,000 for
failing to guard machines and exposing workers to fall and electrical
hazards. Violations include failing to keep work
areas and passageways free of litter; provide guardrail protection,
guard machines and electrical boxes; provide an eyewash station; provide
personal protective equipment for workers handling chemicals; provide
industrial truck and hazard communication training; ensure exit routes
were unobstructed and visibly marked; make sure exit doors could open
properly; cover electrical panel boards supplying power for equipment
and lighting; properly use flexible cords; implement a lockout/tagout
program for energy sources to prevent machines from accidentally
starting up during servicing and maintenance; perform workplace hazards
assessment; develop a written hazard communication program and
record-keeping violations...
November 21 2011
Odom
Industries in Milford, Ohio, faces $90,760 in OSHA fines for altering
injury and illness logs and other violations. OSHA
initiated an inspection of the fabrication plant after receiving a
complaint alleging that injured workers, who were unable to perform
their normal jobs, were moved to other jobs to avoid recordable injuries
on the OSHA 300 logs. Additionally, violations were cited for failing to
inspect and train employees in the use of personal protective gear,
misuse of metal ladders, failure to conduct annual audiograms for
employees exposed to noise hazards; failing to establish a respiratory
program including fit-testing...
November 9 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Vinton Construction Co. for failing to
provide trench workers with cave-in protection; proposed penalties total
$95,040. An inspection conducted under OSHA's Trenching
and Excavation National Emphasis Program found that workers were not
adequately protected when working in a trench approximately 6 feet below
grade. OSHA standards mandate that all excavations 5 feet or deeper be
protected against collapse...
November 3 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA proposes more than $62,000 in fines to
commercial laundry for inadequate hazard energy control and other
hazards; proposed penalties total $62,400.
Uwanta Linen Supply, a commercial laundry that employs about
16 workers, faces citations that include failing to evaluate the
facility to determine if any areas were permit-required confined spaces;
properly guard floor holes; develop written energy control procedures
for machines with multiple energy sources; mount portable fire
extinguishers, perform annual maintenance checks on them and train
employees on their use; examine forklifts before placing them in
service; conduct an exposure determination for workers with exposure to
bloodborne pathogens; provide fall protection for employees working on
an elevated platform using forklifts; provide personal protective
equipment; provide a suitable facility for quick drenching or flushing
of the eyes and/or body for workers exposed to injurious corrosive
materials; provide a hand-washing facility readily accessible to
employees; provide appropriate safety and machine guarding; provide
hepatitis B vaccines to employees potentially exposed to bloodborne
pathogens; ensure that all work areas were clean and in an orderly and
sanitary condition; ensure that an emergency exit door was unlocked and
unimpeded; ensure that electrical equipment was free from recognized
hazards; keep the area around a circuit breaker panel free from
materials; attach grounded conductors to terminals or leads so as to
reverse polarity; effectively close knockouts; properly illuminate work
areas for employees; properly illuminate each exit sign; establish a
written exposure control plan to eliminate or minimize employee exposure
to bloodborne pathogens; and institute an effective hearing conservation
program; failing to properly record work-related injuries and illnesses
on OSHA's 300A log; failing to train employees on the hazardous
chemicals in their work areas...
November 2 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Neman Painting & Sandblasting in
Waukesha, Wis., respirator hazards and other safety violations. Proposed
penalties total $50,140.
November 2 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Illinois pet food production and
packaging company for exposing employees to dust and noise hazards; fines
exceed $750,000.
November 1 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Gardner Equipment Co. in Columbus and
Juneau, Wis., for PPE and other safety and health violations. Proposed fines total
$125,900. Violations include failing to ensure that
workers at the Columbus facility wore protective clothing while using
powdered paint containing skin irritants and sensitizers, failing to
train workers on the use of personal protective equipment and failure to
establish an adequate hazard communication program and do the required
employee training...
October 28 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Dallas facility of California-based
Bridgford Foods for exposing workers to noise, energized machine hazards
Employer faces $422,600 in proposed fines.
The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and
Health Administration has cited Anaheim, Calif.-based Bridgford Foods
Corp. for 27 safety and health violations at its food manufacturing
facility in Dallas, with proposed penalties totaling $422,600. The
violations include, among others, failing to establish and maintain a
hearing conservation program for workers exposed to noise hazards beyond
the permissible exposure limit, and failing to establish a
lockout/tagout program for energy sources to protect workers from
machines starting up unexpectedly...
October 26 2011
Cave-in
hazard at Hanover, Mass., job site leads to $161,000 in proposed fines
for Boston contractor Walsh Corp. from US Labor Department OSHA Employee
worked in unprotected trench below crumbling asphalt, lacked exit ladder. An
OSHA inspector observed an employee working in an unprotected
straight-walled trench more than 5 feet deep that lacked protection to
keep its walls from caving in. The pavement around the trench was
undermined and not removed or supported to prevent it from falling into
the trench; the trench lacked a ladder or other safe means of exit; the
worker lacked head protection against falling debris; and the competent
person on-site, who had the knowledge to identify and the authority to
correct these hazards, did not remove the employee from the unprotected
trench. OSHA standards require that trenches or excavations 5 feet or
deeper be protected against collapse through shoring, sloping of the
soil or use of a protective trench box. Detailed information on
trenching and excavation hazards and safe working procedures is
available at http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/trenchingexcavation/index.html...
October 26 2011
US
Labor Department secures decision affirming OSHA citations and fines
against Danbury, Conn., contractor for cave-in hazards. Sand Cut
Properties LLC ordered to pay more than $137,000 in penalties. OSHA
cited Sand Cut Properties after inspectors at a Brookfield, Conn., work
site found an employee working in a collapsing 6- to 9-foot-deep
excavation that lacked cave-in protection and had piles of excavated
materials overhanging its edge as well as water seeping into its bottom.
The employee was exposed to an additional crushing hazard when he exited
the excavation by riding in the bucket of an excavator...
October 26 2011
North
Georgia sewing contractor cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for
serious safety violations; nearly $47,000 proposed in penalties.
Dacorp Inc. has been cited by the U.S. Department of Labor's
Occupational Safety and Health Administration for safety violations at
its sewing plant in Morganton after an inspection identified a number of
deficiencies, including obstructed exit routes and electrical hazards.
Additional violations included an insufficient number of exit routes, a
number of potential fire hazards; not training employees in the proper
use of powered industrial trucks; an exhaust fan that lacked safeguards;
not providing employees with effective information and training on
hazardous chemicals in their work areas; and the lack of material safety
data sheets for all chemicals found at the plant; no assessment to
determine the need for personal protective equipment; and not supplying
workers with eye protection...
October 10 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA proposes $96,000 in fines for continued
workplace safety and health violations at 3 Lowe's stores in
Pennsylvania. The Carlisle store was cited for
permitting employees to use hazardous liquid chemicals without the use
of personal protective equipment, improperly modifying powered
industrial trucks, using flexible cords and cables as a substitute for
fixed wiring, and failing to properly label hazardous chemical
containers. The Hanover store was cited for violations involving several
electrical hazards, including failing to properly use listed or labeled
electrical equipment, using a flexible cord as a substitute for fixed
wiring and running a flexible cord through a hole in the wall. The store
also was cited for having an obstructed fire alarm pull station, which
previously was cited at other stores. The Palmyra store was cited for
failing to provide personal protective equipment to employees exposed to
hazardous liquid chemicals...
October 5 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Alabama tree trimming company for
safety and health violations following fatality. Violation
were cited for failing to ensure that employees were wearing fall
protection in an aerial lift; allowing employees to be within the fall
zone of a tree being cut down; not ensuring that a retreat path was
cleared and designated prior to the felling of the tree; failing to
train employees in first aid and CPR, provide adequate first-aid
supplies and offer the hepatitis vaccine to employees exposed to
potential bloodborne pathogens...
October 4 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites G.A. Rich & Sons in Lexington,
Ill., for failing to protect trench workers; proposed penalties exceed
$59,000. Violation cited include failing to
protect workers working in a trench approximately 7 feet below grade and
failing to keep excavated materials or equipment at least 2 feet from
the edge of excavations...
September 28 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Alabama-based Brendle Sprinkler Co. for
exposing workers to cave-in, other hazards More than $68,000
proposed in fines. OSHA inspectors have
cited Brendle Sprinkler Co. Inc. for failing to provide a cave-in
protection system while employees were working in a trench greater than
5 feet deep. The company also has been cited for failing to ensure that
employees were wearing hard hats when overhead hazards existed as well
as to provide employees with a safe means to enter and exit the
excavation...
September 21 2011
US
Department of Labor sues Beverly, Mass., dentist for allegedly firing
employee who raised concerns about contaminated needle disposal.
September 13 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites 3 contractors at US Marine Corps
Logistic Base in Albany, Ga., for crane and trenching violations. Proposed
fines total nearly $190,000 following electrical shock injury to worker. OSHA
cited multiple safety violations after the boom tip of a crane contacted
an overhead power line with a carrying capacity of more than 12,000
volts. Electricity traveled down the crane through a line that was
connected to the load being moved by the crane and shocked the employee
on the ground, who was holding the line. Piedmont Mechanical was cited
for failing to determine whether any part of the crane could get
closer than 20 feet to the overhead energized power line, exposing
workers to an electrical shock hazard. Additional violations were cited
involving trenching and excavation at the site including exposing
employees to a cave-in hazard by allowing them to work in a deep trench
where the top of the trench shields were 2–4 feet below the top of the
trench and allowing workers inside a trench where several sections of
the trench shields were not connected with spreader bars and not flush
against the walls of the trench...
September 13 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Roselle, NJ, contractor more than
$158,000 for trenching and other hazards. Violations
involve failing to ensure that the excavation spoil pile was at least 2
feet from the edge of the excavation; ensure that the ladder extended 3
feet above the level being accessed; and provide cave-in protection for
employees working in the excavation. Additional violations were
cited for failing to ensure that daily inspections were conducted by a
competent person, failing to train workers in the recognition and
avoidance of unsafe trenching conditions, implement respiratory
protection and hazard communication programs, provide training and
conduct medical evaluations for workers required to use respirators,
provide training for employees who use hazardous chemicals and provide
material safety data sheets at the site for hazardous chemicals...
September 1 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Florida tree care company for safety
violations following worker injury in Gainesville; penalties exceed
$153,000. OSHA began an inspection after a
worker suffered a serious cut to his thigh by a chain saw at a
Gainesville job site in March. Violations involve not providing
protective leg coverings and eye or face shields to employees who
operated chain saws, and not providing hard hats to employees working on
the ground under trees. Additional violations included: failing to have
a person adequately trained to provide first aid, make adequate
first-aid supplies readily available in the workplace, and have a
written plan designed to eliminate or minimize employee exposure to
bloodborne pathogens. The company had not developed an emergency
response or rescue plan for employees injured in trees, aerial lifts or
other situations. Another citation was issued for failing to develop a
hazard communication program that included material safety data sheets
as well as training for employees using flammable liquids and petroleum
lubricants...
August 10 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA intervenes to remove workers from hazardous
trench in Auburn, Ala.; cites Arizona company for endangering workers. As
OSHA inspectors were traveling to an inspection near Auburn they passed
an open excavation where workers were not being protected from cave-ins.
The OSHA officials stopped and opened an inspection at the NPL
Construction site, and requested that the workers be removed from the
trench. One of the walls of the excavation later collapsed. The company
faces fines of $73,000 for failing to provide a protective system for
employees working in an excavation more than 5 feet deep and for failing
to ensure equipment is kept 2 feet from the edge of the excavation...
August 8 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Dick's Sporting Goods for safety
hazards at Queensbury, NY, location Pennsylvania-based retailer
faces $57,300 in fines, urged to examine safety at other stores. OSHA
inspectors found that workers at the Queensbury store were periodically
required to enter a trash compactor that had not first been de-energized
in order to remove cardboard blockages. Additionally, the store lacked
the means and procedures for employees to enter and work safely in such
a confined space, and training was not provided on the hazards and
safeguards associated with work in a confined space. Additionally,
access to fire extinguishers was blocked and employees were not trained
in how to use fire extinguishers in the event of a fire. "Even in a
retail outlet, employees can be exposed to deadly or disabling hazards
if the proper safeguards and training are absent, as they were
here..."
August 8 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites cites Illinois-based Martin &
Company Excavating for failing to provide trench workers with cave-in
protection. The company faces proposed
penalties of $69,300 following a May inspection, which was conducted
under the agency's Trenching and Excavation National Emphasis Program.
The violation was cited for failing to protect workers who were
installing a water line in a trench approximately 8 feet below grade.
Additional violations include failing to have a competent employee on
site to ensure workers were removed from the trench when there was
evidence of an unsafe situation which could result in a possible
cave-in; failing to equip an adjacent section of pavement that was
hanging over the trench with a support system to protect employees from
possible collapse; and failing to keep excavated materials or equipment
at least 2 feet from the edge of excavations. OSHA standards mandate
that all excavations 5 feet or deeper be protected against collapse...
August 4 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites contractor for willful and serious
violations following trench collapse and fatality in Cumming, Ga.;
penalties total $116,200. OSHA began its
inspection after being notified that emergency personnel were responding
to a possible trench cave-in. Arriving on the scene, OSHA found that the
company had been installing a sewer line in a trench approximately 9
feet deep at the deepest section. The trench walls were vertical with no
means of cave-in protection provided. Dirt placed at the edge of the
trench had fallen into the trench, trapping 20-year-old Aaron Banks who
was freed by emergency crews but who later died from his injuries.
Violations related to the incident involve placing soil within 2 feet of
the edge of the excavation and not providing cave-in protection to
workers in the excavation. An additional violation was cited for failing
to provide a ladder or other safe means of egress for employees working
in a trench at least 4 feet deep...
August 3 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Clifton, NJ, manufacturer for lack of
forklift training, noise exposure and other hazards. OSHA
has cited Safas Corp., which employs about 25 workers, after OSHA
initiated an investigation based on a referral from the New Jersey
Department of Environmental Protection, which alleged strong solvent
odors. Proposed penalties total $135,000. Violations involve the
company's failure to provide workers with forklift training and a
hearing conservation program. Additional violations include failure to provide
personal protective equipment; an eye wash facility; fire extinguisher
training; proper housekeeping; a lockout/tagout program to prevent the
inadvertent start-up of machinery; a hazard assessment; and a hazard
communication program...
August 3 2011
Allentown,
Pa., company faces $110,880 in fines for exposing workers to noise and
other hazards. OSHA initiated an inspection
under a local emphasis program focused on follow-up inspections and
noise hazards. Violations reflect the company's failure to maintain
required records, conduct a baseline audiogram for an employee
overexposed to noise hazards, conduct annual hearing conservation
training for employees overexposed to noise hazards, conduct adequate
forklift operations and ensure equipment had proper machine guards in
place to protect employees, failure to develop and utilize documented
energy control procedures; provide training to employees utilizing
energy control procedures; provide a proper eye wash for employees,
provide machine guards on equipment; maintain copies of material safety
data sheets for all chemicals; maintain clear and unobstructed exit
routes; maintain exit doors and illuminated exit signs in proper working
order; educate employees in fire extinguisher use; maintain forklifts in
safe operating condition; and implement controls to reduce employee
exposure to occupational noise...
August 2 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Birmingham, Ala., manufacturer for
flexible cord and other violations; proposes more than $56,000 in
penalties. Homeland Vinyl Products faces proposed
penalties of $56,400 involving using flexible cords that had been
spliced, not properly labeling and not
attaching warning labels to chemical containers...
August 1 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Fairfield, NJ, manufacturer for exposing
workers to chemicals, other hazards; proposed penalties total $59,290. Some
of the serious violations include failing to provide proper guards on machines and equipment;
properly use and install equipment; properly dispose
of combustible rags; properly store propane containers; implement a
lockout/tagout program to prevent machinery from unexpectedly starting
up while workers perform servicing and maintenance; provide fire
extinguisher training and ensure fire extinguishers were properly
mounted and identified; conduct preventative maintenance on cranes;
develop and implement a chemical hazard communication program; provide
appropriate protective gloves; provide emergency eye wash facilities;
maintain copies of material safety data sheets for hazardous materials
in the workplace and make them accessible to employees for each work
shift; provide truck operators with training and evaluation prior to
operation of the vehicle; and provide information to employees
voluntarily using respirators...
July 27 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites 2 companies in Hamilton, Ala., for
failing to label hazardous chemical containers and other hazards;
proposes more than $112,000 in fines.
Additional violations included not requiring employees working with
corrosive chemicals to wear eye, face, hand or body protection; failing
to have an eyewash station or other means available for drenching; not
protecting a battery charger from being damaged by trucks; failing to
secure and balance crane loads; missing machine guarding; an electrical
disconnect switch that was not readily accessible; inadequate hearing
protection program; failing to provide an evaluation of confined space
rescue and emergency services...
July 27 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Pearce Foundry in Prairieville, La., for
exposing workers to respirable silica, hexavalent chromium, excessive
noise and other hazards. Pearce Foundry Inc.
faces proposed penalties totaling $158,200...
July 22 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Jordan, NY, contractor for cave-in
hazard at SUNY Brockport work site, proposes $147,000 in fines. Blue
Heron Construction qualifies for inclusion in Severe Violator
Enforcement Program. The U.S. Department
of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Blue
Heron Construction after OSHA found Blue Heron employees working in an
unprotected excavation greater than 5 feet in depth. Additionally, the
excavation lacked a ladder or other safe means of access, and piles of
excavated material were situated less than 2 feet from the excavation's
edge. This significant enforcement action qualifies Blue Heron
Construction for placement in OSHA's Severe Violator Enforcement
Program, which mandates targeted follow-up inspections to ensure
compliance with the law. OSHA standards require that all excavations 5
feet or deeper be protected against collapse...
July 20 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Winter Garden, Fla., utility for
trenching violation, proposes $70,000 penalty. The
U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration
has cited Prince Contracting LLC for allegedly endangering workers while
digging a storm water trench adjacent to U.S. Highway 27 in Clermont.
OSHA inspected the site as part of the agency's National Emphasis
Program on Trenching and Excavation...
July 19 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA fines Don Wartko Construction more than
$171,000, cites company for lack of trench protection at 3 Cleveland
sites. Inspections conducted under OSHA's
National Emphasis Program on Trenching and Excavation resulted in
proposed penalties totaling $171,600. Don Wartko Construction was
cited for failing to provide cave-in protection for workers in a trench
more than 5 feet below grade and to provide a safe means of egress...
July 11 2011
Georgia
manufacturer agrees to pay employee more than $176,000 to settle
whistleblower case brought by US Department of Laborn. The
case allegedly began when Blue Bird required the employee to use a
bucket lift truck to install Christmas wreaths for the company. The
employee requested training in the operation of the equipment, resulting
in a disagreement with management over whether the employee was trained.
That disagreement led to the employee's termination. An OSHA
whistleblower investigation found that the employee was illegally
terminated for refusing to work under unsafe conditions...
July 5 2011
Mississippi's
Howard Industries cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for safety
violations following fatal worker electrocution. The
U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration
has cited Howard Industries Inc. in Ellisville following the January
death of a worker. Violations related to the fatality include not
requiring employees to use work safety practices when dealing with live
electrical circuits, and failing to use locks and tags when
de-energizing test equipment. Additional violations include failing to
develop specific lockout/tagout procedures, failing to conduct a
personal protective equipment hazard assessment...
June 28 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Somerville, Mass., commercial laundry for
safety hazards following worker injury. Royal
Institutional Services Inc., faces a total of $49,935 in proposed fines
after la mechanic sustained a crushing hand injury while lubricating the
chain of an ironer machine that was running. OSHA's inspection found
that the machine had not first been de-energized and had its power
source locked out before maintenance was performed, as required by the
agency's hazardous energy control or "lockout/tagout"
standard. In addition, employees authorized to perform maintenance were
not effectively trained to safely perform such activities, and were not
evaluated to ensure that they used and understood adequate energy
control procedures. OSHA cited Royal Institutional Services for for the
lack of energy control procedures; lack of effective training and
evaluation; and lack of documented lockout procedures for a machine...
June 28 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY,
for asbestos, chemical and other hazards; $48,000 in fines proposed. The
hospital faces a total $48,000 in proposed fines after OSHA's inspection
found that the hospital failed to provide adequate asbestos training for
environmental staff and employees in the engineering department who
perform demolition and renovation. Nor did it inform outside contractors
of the presence of potentially asbestos-containing material in and
around their work area. It also failed to properly label
asbestos-containing insulation and floor tile, and allowed disposal of
asbestos-containing material in the hospital dumpster. Additionally, the
hospital failed to train trade employees on the hazards; provide them
with material data safety sheets; and develop a written hazard
communication program for cleaners, lubricants, acetylene, naptha and
other hazardous chemicals. Furthermore, the inspection found improper
storage of compressed gas cylinders and electric shock hazards from
exposed and improperly spliced wiring. Four other violations were cited
for incomplete OSHA 300 illness and injury logs...
June 24 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Waco, Texas, facility with 29
serious workplace violations. OSHA initiated an
inspection in response to a complaint alleging unsafe working conditions
resulting in proposed penalties totaling $161,100. Violations cited
include failing to develop and implement a respiratory program; provide
an area for employees to wash their eyes; provide hazard communication
training to employees working with hazardous and toxic chemicals; and
provide covers on junction, outlet and transformer boxes....
June 22 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites El Paso, Texas, facility for exposing
workers to safety and health hazards. Proposed penalties
total $96,000 for violations that include failing to maintain a
workplace in a clean and orderly manner; maintain an effective hearing
conservation program; provide eye protection for employees; ensure
forklift operators were certified; address electrical hazards; develop
and document procedures for an energy control program and certify annual
injury and illness logs...
June 21 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites MedPlast for workplace safety
and health hazards at West Berlin, NJ, facility. Proposed
penalties total $72,000 for violations including the company's failure
to ensure exits were unblocked; provide eye protection approved by the
American National Standards Institute; train employees on fire
extinguishers; provide proper forklift training and ensure the training
was certified; conduct inspections on powered industrial equipment;
conduct noise monitoring; provide audiometric testing for employees
overexposed to noise; and provide noise training. Additional violations
relate to the company's deficiencies with OSHA Form 300, the Log of
Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses; failure to properly mark plastic
spray containers containing liquids with their contents...
June 20 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Houston-based Schumacher Co. for
exposing workers to hazardous chemicals; fines total $166,500.
In response to a referral, OSHA initiated a safety and health inspection
and found multiple violations include failing to require employees to
wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as chemical aprons,
sleeves/gauntlets and footwear; failing to fit-test employees for
respirators...
June 20 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $59,400 in penalties to San Antonio
company for hearing conservation and other hazards.
June 9 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Cinnaminson, NJ, company for worker
exposure to chemical, other hazards.
The company faces proposed penalties of $49,000 for employee exposure to
chemical exposure above the OSHA permissible exposure limit; failure to
provide appropriate respiratory protection; require employees to use
appropriate hand protection when working with chemicals; provide body
and face protection; provide training to employees regarding chemical
hazards...
June 7 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines AK Steel Corp. $206,000 for
record-keeping violations at Butler, Pa., facility. Company failed
to record outcomes indicating hearing hazards for workers.
The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health
Administration has cited AK Steel Corp. for record-keeping violations
related to potential hearing hazards at its Butler Works facility. OSHA
initiated an inspection in response to a complaint alleging
under-recording of injuries. The violations address the company's
failure to record standard threshold shifts on the OSHA 300 Log when
employees' hearing tests revealed that they experienced a work-related
STS and the employees' total hearing level was 25 decibels or more above
audiometric zero. Additional violations were cited for the company's
failure to properly record other work-related injuries and illnesses...
May 26 2011
Administrative
law judge upholds OSHA citation affirming that musculoskeletal disorder
should be recorded on OSHA 300 Injury and Illness Log.
May 26 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites facility for improper use of step
ladders, slip hazards, and an inadequate Emergency Response Plan.
Proposed penalties total $61,000...
May 23 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Rite Aid Pharmacy for blocked emergency
exits at Brooklyn, NY, store; proposes $60,500 fine.
May 19 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Georgia trenching company for willful,
repeat and serious safety violations; proposes $94,050 in fines.
D&J's Trenching Services of Mansfield was cited for exposing workers
to unsafe trenching practices. Citations were issued for allowing
workers in an unprotected trench; for exposing workers to engulfment
hazards while working in a trench without a safe means of exit; for
exposing workers to fall hazards by allowing employees to access a
portable ladder that did not extend at least 3 feet higher than the
trench wall; and for not implementing a hazard communication program
while employees were using chemicals such as diesel fuels and oils...
May 16 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Capital Construction for exposing workers to
fall, other hazards on Cleveland job site; fines total $102,000.
OSHA inspectors observed employees working without fall protection at
heights greater than 20 feet. Violations include failing to provide
protective eyewear, head protection, fall training and instruction in
the avoidance of unsafe working conditions, as well as failing to
maintain safety programs...
May 16 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites South Easton, Mass., contractor for fall,
other hazards at Lowell, Mass., job site Folan
Waterproofing and Construction Co. Inc. faces a total of $48,510 in
proposed fines after an OSHA inspector observed a Folan employee
climbing out of an elevated aerial lift to access a roof. The inspection
found that employees faced falls of up to 40 feet due to a lack of
required fall protection and inadequate safeguards when working on
aerial lifts, among other hazards. Also, the workers lacked adequate
fall protection while working in and exiting the aerial lift; a
defective wire rope used to lift construction materials had not been
inspected and removed from service; and the crane had not been inspected
annually for defects. Additionally, employees had not been trained to
recognize and address aerial lift hazards, were exposed to electric
hazards from ungrounded electrical equipment and lacked helmets to
protect against falling objects...
May 16 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Paradise Park Assisted Living in Lake
Zurich, Ill., with safety and health violations after needle stick
injury. The facility faces penalties totaling $72,000 after
a nurse practitioner allegedly was injured in a November 2010 needle
stick incident. Violations include failing to immediately test
the blood of a source individual involved in a needle stick incident;
ensure blood test results were communicated to the nurse practitioner;
offer the hepatitis B vaccination to a caregiver with occupational
exposure to blood within 10 working days of initial assignment; train
employees in the hazards of chemicals present in their workspaces;
maintain material safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals; identify
the work area and provide an explanation of injuries in the sharps
injury log; fully implement and annually train employees on the OSHA
Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, including post-exposure evaluation and
follow-up emergency procedures; and ensure containers for disposal of
contaminated sharps were easily accessible to nurses in order to
minimize exposure. Additional violations include failing to record the
contents of training sessions; explain to newly hired staff the color
coding, signs and labels used on regulated sharps waste containers;
maintain records of employees who declined to accept the hepatitis B
vaccination; explain and make copies accessible to nurses of OSHA's
Bloodborne Pathogens Standard; and properly record entries in the OSHA
300 log of workplace-related injuries and illnesses...
May 3 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Paradise Park Assisted Living in Lake
Zurich, Ill., with safety and health violations after needle stick
injury. The facility faces penalties totaling $72,000 after
a nurse practitioner allegedly was injured in a November 2010 needle
stick incident. Violations include failing to immediately test
the blood of a source individual involved in a needle stick incident;
ensure blood test results were communicated to the nurse practitioner;
offer the hepatitis B vaccination to a caregiver with occupational
exposure to blood within 10 working days of initial assignment; train
employees in the hazards of chemicals present in their workspaces;
maintain material safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals; identify
the work area and provide an explanation of injuries in the sharps
injury log; fully implement and annually train employees on the OSHA
Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, including post-exposure evaluation and
follow-up emergency procedures; and ensure containers for disposal of
contaminated sharps were easily accessible to nurses in order to
minimize exposure. Additional violations include failing to record the
contents of training sessions; explain to newly hired staff the color
coding, signs and labels used on regulated sharps waste containers;
maintain records of employees who declined to accept the hepatitis B
vaccination; explain and make copies accessible to nurses of OSHA's
Bloodborne Pathogens Standard; and properly record entries in the OSHA
300 log of workplace-related injuries and illnesses...
April 18 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Trimat Construction of Bidwell, Ohio, after
inspector asks worker to leave trench moments before collapse Quick
efforts may have saved man's life. The U.S.
Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has
issued Trimat Construction Inc. of Bidwell penalties of $63,360 after
a trench collapsed at a job site in Mercerville on March 8. An
inspection was being conducted under OSHA's national emphasis program on
trenching and excavation when the OSHA inspector directed an employee to
exit the trench, believing collapse was imminent. Within five minutes
the trench collapsed and could have buried the worker under 6 to 7 feet
of soil. Citations were issued for allowing a Trimat employee to work in
a trench without cave-in protection or a safe means of egress. The
company also was issued citations for failing to require employees to
wear head protection, failing to provide training on proper set-up and
inspection procedures for maintaining channelization devices between the
work area and road to protect workers from traffic hazards; failing to
keep excavated material and equipment 2 feet from the edge of an
excavation to prevent a cave-in...
April 15 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Lowe's Home Centers for 13 violations
following inspection at Castle Rock, Colo., store Proposed penalties
total $82,700. Seven violations were cited for
numerous inaccuracies in required injury and illness record keeping, and
with electrical safety issues involving access to equipment and damage
to wire insulation. Additional violations were related to issues with
emergency exits, installation of proper electrical receptacles, failure
to perform a personal protective equipment assessment, failure to
properly label hazardous chemicals and lack of detail on required record
keeping...
April 7 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites The Renaissance Project in Ellenville, NY,
for inadequate workplace violence safeguards following worker's death Treatment
facility also cited for record-keeping and bloodborne hazards.
OSHA's investigation found that the employer lacked a written bloodborne pathogens
exposure control plan, failed to train employees on exposure to
bloodborne pathogens, did not offer the Hepatitis B vaccine to affected
employees, lacked a written hazard communication plan, did not maintain illness and injury logs for
2010...
March 14 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites cites Georgia contractor with willful,
serious trenching and excavation violations. In September
2010, as part of OSHA's National Emphasis Program on Trenching and
Excavation, a compliance officer observed several violations at a worksite
on Newnan Street in Carrollton. The company faces $64,750 in penalties for
allowing a worker in a trench without cave-in protection, allowing
employees to work in a trench with overhead hazards without wearing
personal protective equipment, not supplying workers with a safe means of
exit from the trench, exposure to struck-by hazards by allowing an
employee in the trench too close to materials overhead, allowing materials
to be placed too close to the edge of the trench so they could roll back
into the excavation, and not inspecting the trench to identify and correct
struck-by hazards....
March 10 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Dothan, Ala., contractor for safety
violations following worker's death at Enterprise, Ala., construction site.
L & K Contracting has been assessed $159,600 in proposed penalties for
five safety violations after one employee died and another was
hospitalized after wet, heavy soil collapsed into a trench while the men
were installing a sewer pipe. "An unprotected trench can become a
grave in seconds if its walls cave in on workers," said Kurt
Petermeyer, OSHA's area director in Mobile. OSHA issued citations for the
company's failure to take adequate action to protect workers from soil
that fell into the excavation, protect workers from hazards associated
with water accumulation in an excavation and ensure that workers wore
appropriate personal protective equipment while in the trench, allowing
employees to work inside a trench without a safe means of exit from the
excavation, and for failing to report the fatality to OSHA within the
required eight-hour time period. OSHA standards require that all trenches
and excavations 5 feet or deeper be protected against collapse...
March 7 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Chicago-area contractor nearly $123,000
for failing to provide trench cave-in protection for workers.
Inspections were conducted under OSHA's national emphasis program on
trenching and excavation. The company was cited for failing to protect
workers from cave-ins during trenching operations at a jobsite in Morton
Grove. The citation alleges that employees were working in a trench at a
depth greater than 7 feet without cave-in protection during an inspection
on Oct. 4, 2010. A trench box that would protect workers was located near
the site but not installed. Based on the October inspection, the company
was issued citations for failing to provide a safe means of access and
egress for employees working in an excavation . An additional
citation was issued for failing to provide hardhats for employees exposed
to overhead hazards...
February 28 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Canton, Mass., contractor for failing to
provide cave-in protection at Boston jobsite. The company
faces a total of $29,000 in proposed fines. OSHA's inspection found that
the 7 to 7-and-one-half foot deep trench in which Trainor Construction
employees were working lacked adequate protection against a collapse of
its sidewalls. The agency also determined that the trench lacked shoring
or underpinning for an unsupported concrete structure adjacent to the
trench, the trench's support system members were not installed properly,
and a competent person had not removed the workers from the trench.
Finally, the employees lacked reflective vests or high visibility clothes,
exposing them to the hazards of being struck by or caught between
vehicular traffic...
February 25 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites A.A. Will Corp. $69,300 for failing to
provide cave-in protection during electrical vault installation at Revere,
Mass., jobsite. OSHA's nighttime inspection, initiated in
response to a complaint about unsafe conditions, found A.A. Will Corp.
employees working in a trench deeper than 5 feet that lacked protection
against collapse of its sidewalls. The Stoughton contractor was installing
electrical vaults in the station's parking lot. The trench also lacked a
ladder or other means for the workers to exit in the event of a cave-in or
other emergency...
February 24 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Venetian Marble & Granite in Helotes,
Texas, for exposing workers to excessive levels of respirable silica.
OSHA's San Antonio office initiated a safety and health inspection at the
company's facility on Western Oak Drive and determined that employees were
exposed to respirable crystalline silica particles while grinding, sanding
and buffing countertop products such as natural granite, quartz and solid
surfaces. Proposed penalties total $41,300. The agency alleges that the
company failed to ensure levels of crystalline silica met safety
standards, provide employees with required respiratory protection,
determine that employees were medically fit to wear respiratory
protection, follow proper procedures to lock out/tag out accidental energy
start-up prior to servicing and performing maintenance on machinery,
properly guard a table saw and cut off saw, and train employees on the use
of hazardous chemicals. Venetian Marble & Granite employs about 45
workers who manufacture custom countertops for residential and commercial
applications...
February 14 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Northeast Hospital Corp. for failing to
protect workers against electrical hazards at Beverly, Mass., facility Hospital
faces $63,000 in proposed fines. Northeast Hospital
Corp. faces a total of $63,000 in proposed fines following an OSHA
inspection prompted by a worker complaint. OSHA found that some hospital
employees were exposed to potential electric shock, burns, arc flash
incidents and electrocution while changing circuit breakers on live
electrical panels. Specifically, the employees lacked or did not use
personal protective equipment while working with energized electrical
equipment; electrical protective equipment was not periodically tested;
electrical safety related work practices were not used; and specific
procedures were not developed for the control of hazardous energy while
replacing electrical breakers. The hospital also was issued a citation for
failing to ensure that unused openings in electrical panels and cabinet
motor control centers were effectively closed...
February 9 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $337,500 in fines to Louisiana company
for recordkeeping violations. OSHA's Baton Rouge office
initiated its investigation on Aug. 10, 2010, after receiving a complaint
alleging that employees' work-related injuries and illnesses were not
being recorded in the OSHA 300 log. Employers are required to record
fatalities as well as all significant injuries and illnesses, including
the number of days away from work, the days of job transfer or any
restriction that results from the injury or illness...
February 8 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Chicago-area contractor $60,600 for
failing to provide trench cave-in protection for workers. The
inspection was conducted under an OSHA national emphasis program on
trenching and excavation. The willful citation alleges that a Doherty,
Giannini & Rietz Construction employee was working in a trench at a
depth greater than 6 feet without cave-in protection during a December
2010 inspection. A trench box was present on the site but not installed in
the trench...
February 7 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites North Branford, Conn., contractor for
failing to provide cave-in protection at Stratford, Conn., jobsite Cherry
Hill Construction faces more than $53,000 in proposed fines. OSHA's
inspection found a Cherry Hill Construction employee working in an
excavation deeper than 5 feet that lacked proper protection against a
collapse of its sidewalls as well as a ladder or other safe means of exit.
The worker also was exposed to being struck by the bucket of an excavator
that was placing gravel in the excavation. OSHA standards require that all
trenches and excavations 5 feet or deeper be protected against collapse...
January 31 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines manufacturer in Little Rock, Ark.,
$88,000 for exposing workers to safety and health hazards. Proposed
penalties total $88,000 for Welspun Tubular LLC. OSHA has issued
citations for failing to protect workers from struck-by hazards,
determine load capacities of cranes, provide a self-closing fire door,
provide the required machine guarding equipment and ensure
lockout/tagout procedures were followed to de-energize electrical
equipment; failing to identify respiratory hazards, provide training in
hazard communication and provide hepatitis B vaccinations for employees
exposed to blood-borne pathogens or other infectious materials.
Additional violations include failure to provide fork truck maintenance
and failing to adequately complete the OSHA 300 logs with detailed
information on work-related injuries and illnesses...
January 31 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $220,000 in fines to Syracuse, NY,
manufacturer for willful, serious and uncorrected violations. Oberdorfer
LLC cited for exposing workers to silica, mechanical and electrical
hazards. The Syracuse manufacturer of aluminum
castings faces a total of $220,000 in proposed fines following an OSHA
inspection. The company was cited for employee overexposure to
airborne concentrations of silica, which has been classified as a human
lung carcinogen, and failure to implement engineering controls to reduce
workers' exposure to silica. In addition, the inspection found that an
employee who was overexposed to silica lacked a respirator. The
company also was issued fines for fall, electrical and machine guarding
hazards; a locked exit door; lack of a permit-required confined space
program and training; failure to develop specific lockout/tagout
procedures to prevent the unintended startup of machinery; lack of an
eyewash station; and failing to provide training on silica; inadequate
recording of workplace injuries and illnesses...
January 26 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Cherry Hill, NJ, company for worker
exposure to silica, other health and safety hazards. KOL Marble and Granite has been cited for 15 workplace health and safety
violations at its Cherry Hill facility. Proposed penalties total
$48,600. OSHA initiated an inspection in response to a complaint
alleging that employees were exposed to silica dust while dry cutting
stone. Violations cited include the company's failure to have
engineering and/or administrative controls in place for employee
overexposure to respirable dusts that contain 28 percent silica;
establish or implement a written respiratory protection program; train
employees on the hazards of silica; implement a written hazard
communication program for employees exposed to silica; properly guard
machines; properly train forklift operators; provide effective
respiratory training; conduct a hazard assessment; ensure that employees
use appropriate eye protection when exposed to flying particles; provide
noise training to employees who were over the permissible exposure
level; and conduct audiometric testing for employees who were over the
permissible exposure level. The company also was cited for failing to
maintain injury and illness logs for 2009...
January 20 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Amesbury, Mass., manufacturer for
emergency response, respirator, chemical, electrical and other hazards Durasol
Corp. faces $43,800 in proposed fines.
January 19 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines recycler Greenstar for potentially
exposing workers to bloodborne pathogens. Proposed
penalties total $53,000 for alleged failure to provide
puncture-resistant gloves for handling trash, provide a tie-off point to
prevent employees from falling, use lockout/tagout procedures on
machinery, provide a fire alarm system, ensure a fire evacuation plan
was followed and ensure workers facing exposure to hepatitis B are
vaccinated. Other citations allege failure to record injuries within a
seven-day period, record restricted days, record days when workers were
absent and complete logs with detailed information...
January 18 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA seeks court order to require Gerardi Sewer
& Water Co. to notify OSHA of jobsites to protect against cave-ins.
The U.S. Department of Labor is seeking an administrative court order
requiring Gerardi Sewer & Water Co., a Norridge, Ill.-based
contractor, to provide a monthly report of its work locations to the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, permit unannounced
jobsite audits by qualified independent consultants and annually train
workers on cave-in protection for the next two years. The company
received citations for failing to protect workers from cave-ins during
trenching operations...
January 13 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites US Steel Corp. and Power Piping Co.
with $175,000 in fines for energy control hazards.
Safety citations were issued for having an inadequate lockout/tagout to
prevent the inadvertent release of energy, a deficient process safety
management program, and failure to implement an emergency response plan,
evaluate respiratory hazards, use flame retardant gloves and use
approved electrical equipment...
January 13 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites El Paso, Texas, plastering company for
exposing workers to fall hazards. Proposed penalties
total $99,000 for failing to provide base plates and mud sills to
prevent scaffolds from becoming unstable, a ladder for safe access to
all working levels of the scaffold, training for employees who perform
scaffolding work, and fall protection systems such as guardrails and/or
personal fall arrest systems such as harnesses to employees working from
a scaffold...
January 11 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites chemical plant in Plaquemine, La., with
14 workplace safety and health violations. Proposed
penalties total $55,000 for failing to illuminate exit routes, train
workers performing preventive maintenance on safety critical
instruments, and ensure eyewashes had adequate flow and capped
nozzles...
January 11 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Bridgford Foods Processing $212,000 for
lockout/tagout and other violations. The company has
been cited for failing to implement and provide training for workers on
lockout/tagout procedures, thereby exposing them to energized equipment.
The company allegedly allowed workers to remove a shovel stuck in an
auger screw conveyor without locking or tagging out the auger, placing
employees in danger of the machine operating while they worked to remove
the shovel. Bridgford Foods Processing also has been issued citations
for having locked exit doors, failing to provide lockout/tagout or
electrical safety training, failing to provide a load backrest extension
on a powered industrial truck to minimize the hazard of material
falling, failing to perform periodic energy control inspections and to
maintain unobstructed exit routes, failing to properly illuminate exit
signs...
January 10 2011
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Worcester, Mass., contractor for
failing to provide cave-in protection at Quincy, Mass., jobsite.
Proposed fines total $20,020 for exposing workers to trenching hazards
at a Quincy, Mass., worksite. OSHA's inspection found Amorello employees
working in a trench that lacked proper shoring or sloping of its
sidewalls to prevent them from collapsing onto the workers. The
inspection also found that the trench did not have a ladder so workers
could swiftly exit the trench, and that bricks and excavated material
were stored at the edge of the trench wall...
January 5 2011
US
Labor Department's OSHA fines Newark, NJ, construction company $58,000
for not protecting workers against falls. OSHA
initiated an inspection as part of its local emphasis program on fall
hazards in construction. As a result of the inspection, the company was
cited for failure to provide fall protection to employees working on
roofs approximately 11 feet above ground level, to extend two ladders 3
feet above the work area and to protect employees from eye injuries
while using pneumatic nail guns. The company was also cited for failure
to conduct frequent and regular inspections of the jobsite, and to
maintain contact with a ladder when accessing the roof while carrying
equipment...
January 4 2011
US
Department of Labor's cites Speedy Rooter Inc. of South Sioux City,
Neb., following double fatality in sewer manhole.
Speedy Rooter Inc. in South Sioux City, Neb., has been issued fines of
$94,500 after a worker entered the manhole in an attempt to rescue
another worker who had been overcome by sewer gas, and both workers
died. Citations were issued for failing to effectively develop and
implement a confined space permit program to ensure workers were
protected from confined space hazards. Other citations include failing
to provide effective means for atmospheric testing, space ventilation,
summoning rescue and emergency services, issuing entry permits and
conducting employee training..
December 29 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites US Postal Service in Duluth, Ga., with
repeat and serious safety violations, $80,000 in penalties.
Violations include deficiencies involving lockout/tagout to prevent
accidental start-up of machinery; permitting material to be stored in
front of the electrical and circuit breaker panel; having unused
openings on electrical, fire and receptacle boxes; using flexible cords
instead of fixed wiring; and missing the electrical strain prevention
clamp on the dock lights. The Postal Service is also being cited for
failing to mark exits visibly and having broken dock lights that exposed
electrical wiring...
December 29 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $238,000 in fines against US Postal
Service for electrical hazards at Shrewsbury, Mass., mail processing
facility. OSHA's inspection, which began June 29 in
response to a worker complaint, found that unqualified employees at the
Shrewsbury location were allowed to work on and test energized
electrical circuits and equipment. In addition, electrical equipment had
not been de-energized prior to maintenance being performed, and
employees were not supplied with insulated tools and equipment.
OSHA also issued the Postal Service for lack of employee training in
safety-related electrical work practices, lack of personal protective
equipment, inadequate voltage meters and failing to perform periodic
inspections of the Shrewsbury facility's energy control procedures...
December 27 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites construction company more than $81,000
for excavation hazards at Galena Park, Texas, worksite.
Horseshoe Construction Inc. has been cited for failing to protect
workers from excavation hazards. Violations were issued for failure to
provide a protective shoring system, failing to protect workers from a
possible cave-in, failing to provide a safe means of access and egress
from the excavation, and for failing to remove accumulating water at the
bottom of the trench. Violations were also issued for having excavated
material piles located within 2 feet of the edge of the excavation and
for failing to complete all recordable work-related injuries in detail
on the OSHA 300 log...
December 22 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Illinois-based Di Paolo Co. $113,000
for failure to provide cave-in protection for trench workers.
OSHA's inspection, initiated in June, for failing to provide cave-in
protection for workers. Cave-in protection is required when employees
are working in an excavation at a depth greater than 5 feet.
Additionally, the company was issued violations for failing to provide
fall protection for shoring systems and walkways, failing to properly
train flaggers, and having spliced flexible extension cords and
unapproved repairs to electrical cords...
December 21 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Corpus Christi, Texas-based
construction company $87,000 for exposing workers to potential cave-ins.
Citations were issued alleging a failure to ensure employees did not
enter areas under digging equipment, ensure soil was placed 2 feet or
more from the excavation site and provide safe access to a work area
with a break in elevation greater than 19 inches. Additionally,
violations were cited for allegedly failing to provide workers with
egress when working in a trench that is deeper than 4 feet and failing
to provide cave-in protection...
December 21 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Chicago-area contractor $360,000 for
failing to provide trench cave-in protection for workers.
As a result of inspections conducted under the OSHA Trenching and
Excavation Special Emphasis Program, OSHA issued citations alleging that
Gerardi failed to properly protect workers from trench cave-ins .
Standards mandate that all excavations 5 feet or deeper be protected
against collapse. The company was also issued citations alleging that
employees failed to wear hard hats, and that the employer failed to
provide a safe means of access and egress for employees working in an
excavation site, as well as allegedly failing to ensure that water
accumulations were removed from a trench. This case meets the
criteria for OSHA's Severe Violators Enforcement Program. Initiated in
the spring of 2010...
December 10 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Texas Linen in Austin, Texas more than
$126,000 for multiple hazards. OSHA began an inspection
June 10 at the company's worksite on Smith Road and found employees
operating a forklift without wearing a seat belt, as well as wet floors
in passageways, aisles and laundry work areas. OSHA issued serious
citations alleging a failure to provide fall protection for employees
working at an elevation of 16 feet; to provide an adequate number of
locks and enforce lockout procedures during machine servicing to prevent
injuries from unexpected re-start of machines and equipment; and to
ensure a fiberglass ladder was set up and used correctly. Additional
citations were issued for failure to keep flooring dry; provide
working and easily accessible portable fire extinguishers...
December 9 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites 3 Massachusetts contractors for cave-in
hazards at Salem, NH, jobsite. Joseph P. Cardillo &
Son Inc. of Wakefield, Majestic Mechanical Contractors Inc. of Tewksbury
and Domenick Zanni Sons Inc. of Reading face $154,700 in proposed
fines. The OSHA inspection began in June when an agency
official observed employees working in an unprotected 8-foot deep
excavation that also lacked a ladder or other safe means of
egress. OSHA standards require that excavations 5 feet or deeper
be protected against collapse...
December 6 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Ohio-based Ameriwood Industries $60,000
for lack of protective gear and training. The wood
furniture manufacturer in Tiffin, has been cited for failing to train
employees in safe work practices and require them to wear proper safety
equipment when working on electrical panels. Proposed penalties total
$60,000. The company also received citations for failing to
implement safety-related work practices and require employees to wear
personal face protection gear when working on electrical panels. Ameriwood Industries Inc. paid $70,500 in fines in 2009 for exposing
workers to hazardous dust, a lack of training, failing to ensure
employees wore personal protective equipment, and failing to implement
and train employees in lockout/tagout procedures of energy sources...
December 1 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Next Step Burwell LLC in Burwell, Neb.,
for exposing workers to serious electrical hazards. $75,600 in penalties
proposed following investigation of fatality. OSHA
cited the company following an investigation of an incident in which two
workers were subjected to electric shock. A Next Step employee was
shocked after being instructed to clean out a charged electrical wiring
cable tray in which a combination of rain water and corn stalk dust had
been allowed to accumulate. Subsequently, a subcontracted employee was
fatally electrocuted after being asked to check the cable tray...
December 1 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Huntsman Petrochemical of Houston, Texas,
for deficient lockout/tagout procedures. The company's
facility on Jefferson Chemical Road in Conroe, Texas faces proposed
penalties of $75,600 for an inadequate process safety management program
and deficient lockout/tagout procedures to prevent the accidental
start-up of machinery...
December 1 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA fines Hondo, Texas, company more than $52,000
for failing to provide forklift training to workers.
"This company jeopardized the safety of its workers by failing to
provide forklift training," said Jeff Funke, OSHA's area director
in San Antonio, Texas. "It's imperative that employers adhere to
OSHA's safety and health standards to prevent injuries and fatalities by
properly training their workers." Other violations include
failing to provide proper housekeeping by placing miscellaneous items on
the stairway, creating a trip hazard; and electrical deficiencies, and
failing to record injuries in the OSHA 300 log and to keep fire exits
clear...
December 1 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Home Depot in San Antonio for lack of
worker protective equipment, improper recordkeeping.
Home Depot U.S.A. Inc. at 9115 North Loop 1604 in San Antonio faces
proposed penalties of $70,500 for lacking adequate personal protective
equipment and deficient injury recordkeeping. OSHA began its
inspection on July 30, which found that an employee had sustained
chemical burns due to lack of appropriate personal protective equipment
and training for protective equipment...
November 30 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA fines Ohio-based Mikesell Excavating more than
$49,000 for failure to provide cave-in protection for workers.
OSHA standards mandate that all excavations 5 feet or deeper be
protected against collapse. The company was issued citations for failing
to properly protect workers from trench cave-ins as a result of an
October inspection and for failing to train workers on proper safety
regulations and to have worksites inspected by trained personnel...
November 30 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Chambersburg, Pa., excavation company for
trenching hazards. David H. Martin Excavating Inc. in
Chambersburg faces $63,000 in penalties for alleged trenching
hazards. OSHA standards mandate that all excavations 5 feet or
deeper be protected against collapse. "When sudden cave-ins occur,
unprotected trenches can become death traps," said Kevin Kilp,
director of OSHA's Harrisburg Area Office in Pennsylvania. "The
company bypassed necessary safeguards, leaving its workers at risk of
serious injury and possible death."
November 29 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA levies $46,200 in proposed penalties against US
Postal Service in Des Moines, Iowa. The U.S. Postal
Service Processing and Distribution Center in Des Moines faces proposed
fines totaling $46,200 for failing to properly train workers on powered
industrial truck hazards. Alleged violations include failing to provide
refresher training when workers were observed operating powered
industrial trucks in an unsafe manner and to certify that workers were
properly trained, and failing to conduct an evaluation of each powered
industrial truck operator at least every three years...
November 17 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA fines Macon, Ga., plating company more than
$300,000 for exposing workers to hazardous chemicals.
Aerospace/Defense Coatings of Georgia Inc. in Macon has been cited for
19 health violations following a complaint concerning personal
protective equipment and the handling, storing and disposing of
chemicals. Violations include respirator and personal protective equipment, amongst others...
November 17 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA proposes $287,000 in fines against US Postal
Service in Bluefield, W.Va., for exposing workers to electrical hazards.
The violations cite the facility's failure to label electrical cabinets,
properly train employees, use safety-related work practices when exposed
to energized electrical parts and provide proper electrical protective
equipment. A citation was also issued for allowing an unauthorized
employee to perform inspections...
November 16 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA
fines Precision Production Inc. more than $149,000 for lack of hazardous
energy procedures, not training workers. Precision
Production Inc., a manufacturer of fabricated components in Cleveland, faces
penalties totaling $149,250 for failing to establish lockout/tagout
procedures of energy sources, train workers on recognizing hazardous
energy sources and control methods, and require workers to lock out
machinery when performing maintenance and have machine guards in place.
Other alleged violations include failing to develop training programs
for working with hazardous chemicals, develop and implement a workplace
hazard assessment, train workers in the use and wear of personal
protective equipment...
November 9 2010
Dracut,
Mass., contractor faces more than $32,000 in fines from US Labor
Department's OSHA for excavation hazards at Belmont, Mass., jobsite. OSHA
has cited Albanese D&S Inc. after observing workers installing
concrete culverts in an excavation deeper than 5 feet that lacked
protection against a possible collapse of its sidewalls. The excavation
also lacked a ladder or other safe means for the workers to enter and
exit. The company also was cited for not removing a defective ladder
from service...
November 3 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA fines Lowe's Rockford Distribution Center
$182,000 for recordkeeping violations. OSHA has cited
the Lowe's Home Centers Inc. regional distribution center in Rockford
with proposed penalties of $182,000 for alleged continuous failure to
correctly classify injuries or illnesses and not correctly recording the
number of days a worker was away from work due to injury or illness in
the OSHA 300 log. "Accurate injury and illness records are vital to
protecting workers' health and safety," said OSHA Area Director
Kathy Webb in North Aurora, Ill. "Accurate records are an important
tool that employers and workers can use to identify hazards in the
workplace, and they also enable OSHA to better target its
resources"...
November 2 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA fines ABC Professional Tree Services $146,000
for failing to protect workers near energized transmission lines.
November 1 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites National Grid for cave-in and struck-by
hazards following injury at Boston worksite with proposed penalties of
$36,500. Workers had not been trained to recognize and
avoid trenching hazards, and the trench had not been inspected by a
competent person with the knowledge to identify such hazards.
Brenda Gordon, OSHA's area director for Boston and southeastern
Massachusetts comments "A competent inspection would have
identified and allowed these hazardous conditions to be fixed before
workers ever entered the trench. I urge employers to prevent incidents
such as this one by always following proper procedures and ensuring
effective trenching safeguards at all jobsites."
November 1 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Newport, Del., company $67,000 for
exposing workers to trenching hazards. "Excavation
is recognized as one of the most hazardous construction operations.
However, cave-ins are easily avoided when the proper precautions are
taken," said Domenick Salvatore, director of OSHA's Wilmington Area
Office. "By bypassing necessary safeguards, the company left its
workers at risk of serious injury and possible death."...
October 26 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA cites Aliquippa, Pa., landscaping company for
safety violations following worker electrocution with proposed penalties
of $119,700. The company was cited for failing to
provide personal protective equipment for workers cutting in and below
trees, and for ensuring that an unqualified worker did not work in
proximity to an energized electrical line. The company also
allegedly failed to conduct a hazard assessment, to provide personal
protective equipment training, to provide first aid supplies, to
develop, implement and maintain a hazard communication program, maintain
material safety data sheets for hazardous chemicals used by employees on
site, and provide information and training to employees on the hazardous
chemicals in their work area...
October 19 2010
US
Labor Department's OSHA fines Columbus, Ohio, US Postal Service
processing center $210,000 for electrical and equipment hazards.
The Postal Service failed to provide adequate electrical safety
training, ensure that workers followed safety-related work practices
while working on electrical equipment and provide workers with
appropriate personal protective equipment while working on energized
electrical equipment...
October 5 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA fines AK Steel Corp. in Middletown, Ohio,
$53,000 for failing to record worker injuries, hearing loss.
October 5 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA fines Equistar Chemicals in Tuscola, Ill.,
$81,900 for safety violations following fire.
October 5 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA cites Springdale, Pa., company for workplace
safety violations following worker electrocution.
October 4 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA fines Holland, Ohio, company $135,800 for
exposing workers to cave-in hazards. "Cave-ins are
a leading cause of worker injuries and fatalities during
excavations."...
October 4 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA cites Ohio-based trenching company for safety
violations after worker fatality. "Cave-in
accidents are a leading cause of worker fatalities during excavations,
and this was a completely avoidable accident had the company followed
all the required OSHA standards."...
September 30 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA cites Consolidated Blenders Inc. in Odessa,
Neb., with $120,600 in penalties for inadequate respiratory protection,
lack of confined space permit, lockout/tagout violations and more.
September 28 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA cites Atlanta paper recycler with $48,000 in
proposed fines for lack of written PPE hazard assessment and hazard
communication program deficiencies.
September 23 2010
Monroe,
Ga., company cited $62,800 by OSHA for exposing workers to excavation
hazards.
September 22 2010
R.A.
Cullinan and Son Inc. fined $71,000 by OSHA for failure to provide
cave-in protection for workers.
September 17 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA cites Cathcart Contracting Co. in Florida for
exposing workers to cave-in hazards. Fines total $112,000.
September 16 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA cites Austin, Texas, company $51,000 for
exposing workers to excavation and other hazards.
September 7 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA proposes $89,000 in fines to CVS Pharmacy for
exit, storage and other hazards at Orange, Conn., store. OSHA
found that employees working in the store's stockroom were not provided
with unobstructed and effective emergency exit routes due to containers
and pallets blocking the routes...
September 7 2010
U.S.
Labor Department fines Watchung, NJ, Dollar Tree Stores more than
$50,000 for exposing workers to workplace safety hazards. Violations
include failing to properly stack, block, interlock or limit the height
of stored materials, to cover exposed electrical outlets, and to keep
storage areas free of tripping and fire hazards...
September 3 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA fines Alabama company after worker was killed
when crushed between a motor being hoisted with a forklift and other
equipment.
September 2 2010
Cave-in
hazards at Ariton, AL., worksite lead to $287,500 in US Labor Department OSHA fines.
September 1 2010
Cave-in
hazard at Newport, RI, jobsite leads to nearly $70,000 in US Labor
Department OSHA fines for Middletown, RI, contractor.
September 1 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor cites S&S Plumbing for exposing workers to
potential trenching hazards at worksite with proposed penalties of
$46,975.
September 1 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor cites Houston manufacturing company for hiding
work-related injuries and illnesses; fines exceed $1.2 million.
August 31 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor fines Wisconsin company $369,500 in proposed
penalties for inadequate hearing conservation program, recordkeeping and
other violations.
August 31 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor cites construction company for potential trenching
hazards and proposes penalties of $40,000.
August 30 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor cites Letart, W.Va., manufacturer for workplace
safety and health hazards. Proposed penalties
total $44,000 for 10 serious violations including inadequate hearing
and respiratory programs, electrical hazards, improper use of compressed
air, as well as employee exposure to silica, lead and manganese fumes...
August 26 2010
Company
cited with proposed penalties of $62,200 for failure to provide reverse
signal alarm on equipment amongst other safety violations.
OSHA initiated an investigation after an employee digging a
shallow ditch was struck by a tractor and pinned while backing up.
Additional violations include failure to train workers in the
recognition and avoidance of hazards ...
August 25 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor's OSHA cites US Postal Service in Kansas City, Kan.,
with $191,000 in penalties for serious and repeat safety violations.
Violations include overall deficiencies in walking/working
surfaces, fall protection, sling use, machine guarding, welding and
electrical equipment...
August 23 2010
OSHA
fines Karl's Event Rental $85,000 for combustible dust, electrical and
other hazards.
August 23 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor fines Exeter, Pa., manufacturer $156,000 for
workplace safety hazards. Proposed penalties
total $156,000 for inadequate lockout/tagout procedure for energy
sources, unguarded machinery and electrical hazards...
August 23 2010
U.S.
Labor Department's OSHA fines manufacturer nearly $70,000 for worker
exposure to noise, other workplace hazards.
August 20 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor proposes $350,000 in fines against US Postal Service
for electrical hazards at Portsmouth, NH, mail processing facility.
August 18 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor proposes $49,000 in fines for cave-in hazard.
August 12 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor cites AmeriCold Logistics with $189,000 in fines for
serious safety violations at Burley, Idaho, facility. Many
of the alleged violations cited were for deficiencies in Americold
Logistics' process safety management program, which helps to ensure that
operations involving hazardous chemicals are performed in a safe
manner...
August 12 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor's OSHA cites M & G Equipment Group following
worker's death in Alamo, Texas.
August 9 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor cites Huntsville, Ala. plant for facility hazards.
Proposed penalties
total $191,500 for failure to provide adequate lockout/tagout
procedures, machine guarding issues, obstructed exit pathways...
August 9 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $357,000 in fines against US Postal
Service for electrical hazards at Boston mail processing facility.
August 5 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Matula & Matula Construction
following worker death in Lake Jackson, Texas.
August 4 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Jimmie Crowder Excavating and Land
Clearing for endangering workers.
July 29 2010
U.S.
Labor
Department's OSHA proposes $420,000 in fines against US Postal Service
for electrical hazards at Vermont mail processing facility.
July 29 2010
Noise
exposure complaint leads to proposed OSHA fines of $73,500 at Marcum
Transport of Verdunville, W.Va.
July 22 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor's OSHA cites South Windsor, Conn., contractor for
cave-in, trenching and fall hazards.
July 20 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor cites Legion Industries in Waynesboro, Ga., for
machine guarding, inadequate safety training, electrical, chemical and
other hazards.
July 20 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor proposes $112,000 in fines against Home Depot USA
for chemical hazards and inadequate safety training.
July 19 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Jarden Home Brands for alleged safety
violations. Proposed
penalties totaling $197,500 were issued for electrical hazards,
inadequate lockout/tagout procedures and machine guarding, training
deficiencies in the use of forklift trucks...
July 12 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor proposes more than $69,000 in penalties against
Roll-Kraft for exposing workers to hazards. The
steel manufacturing facility was cited for failing to provide required
safety training and for not protecting workers against electrical and
machine hazards...
July 12 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor cites Krestmark Industries in Dallas for allegedly
lacking hearing conservation program and other safety and health
violations. A willful violation has been issued
for the company's failure to institute...
July 8 2010
Repeat
and serious safety hazards at 4 Xpect Discount locations in Connecticut
lead to $140,000 in US Labor Department OSHA fines for Ohio retailer.
Inspections found safety violations related to personal
protective equipment, forklift operator training, failure to maintain or
certify injury and illness logs...
July 6 2010
U.S.
Department of Labor files worker safety complaint against USPS.
Complaint requests enterprise-wide remedy, a 1st...
July 12 2010
OSHA
proposes $272,000 in fines against US Postal Service for exposing
workers to electrical hazards at Capitol Heights, Md., facility.
"These citations and sizable fines reflect the Postal
Service's failure to equip its workers with the necessary knowledge and
skills to safely work"...
June 28 2010
OSHA
proposes $430,000 in fines against US Postal Service for electrical
hazards at Scarborough, Maine mail processing facility.
"The Postal Service knew that proper and effective training
was needed for the safety of its workers but did not provide
it."...
June 15 2010
Employer
ordered by US Department of Labor to make amends to employee censured
for reporting work-related injury.
June 8 2010
OSHA
fines US Postal Service nearly $500,000 for exposing workers to
electrical hazards at two Philadelphia facilities. OSHA's
inspections found inadequately trained employees performing work without
the proper personal protective equipment while being exposed to live
parts...
June 1 2010
OSHA
cites Linden, NJ, manufacturer for exposing employees to chemical
hazards. OSHA has proposed penalties
totaling $88,500 for hazards found in an inspection initiated upon
receiving a complaint related to a chlorine release at the facility.
Among the hazards observed by OSHA inspectors was the company's failure
to establish and implement written procedures required to manage any
changes to technology, facilities, equipment and procedures that can
potentially impact a chemical process...
May 26 2010
OSHA
orders United Parcel Service to compensate driver terminated for
refusing to drive due to safety concerns. OSHA
investigated the employee's allegation that UPS terminated his
employment in retaliation for his refusal to drive after raising safety
concerns and has ordered UPS to pay $111,008...
May 24 2010
OSHA
proposes more than $60,000 in penalties against Waukesha, Wis.-based
Baird Display for 19 safety violations. OSHA discovered
that employees were bypassing safety switches in order to reach into
running machinery to un-jam it without shutting down the machine.
Other alleged violations include failure to establish a lockout/tagout
energy control program, to provide proper training and to have proper
guarding on machinery or rotating shafts...
May 20 2010
OSHA
cites former North Brunswick, NJ, manufacturer for exposing workers to
risks involving hazardous chemicals. Church &
Dwight Co. Inc. has been cited fro 14 serious violations involving
employee exposure to chemical hazards. Proposed penalties total
$55,125...
May 20 2010
OSHA
finds CSX Transportation Inc. retaliated against dispatcher who reported
safety concerns. The rail carrier was ordered to
rescind discipline and pay worker $5,000 in punitive damages...
May 13 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites Corpus Christi, Texas-based mobile home
park for exposing workers to trenching hazards. OSHA has cited
Bardav Inc., doing business as Martha's Vineyard Mobile Home Park in
Corpus Christi, with 13 violations for exposing workers to trenching
violations with proposed penalties totaling $50,250...
May 11 2010
OSHA
notifies Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center of workplace safety
and health hazards to its workers. Violations
identified involve electrical hazards, safety guarding of machines,
compliance with requirements for controlling bloodborne pathogens and
confined space entry, among others...
May 10 2010
OSHA
finds Port Authority Trans-Hudson Corp. violated whistleblower law.
A whistleblower investigation by the U.S.
Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration
found that the company violated an employee's rights when he was absent
from work while recovering from an injury...
May 10 2010
OSHA
proposes more than $61,000 in fines against Brighton, Mass., contractor
for excavation hazards. OSHA's inspection
found employees working in a trench more than 8-feet deep that lacked
cave-in protection and a ladder or other safe means of exit, and also
had excavated spoils piled at its edge, a condition that exposed workers
in the trench to crushing or struck-by hazards...
May 10 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines US Postal Service processing center
$210,000 for safety violations. OSHA's
inspection found that the postal service failed to provide required
electrical safety training for its workers; to ensure workers used
safety-related work practices while working on electrical equipment; and
to provide workers with appropriate personal protective equipment while
working on energized equipment...
May 10 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $217,000 in fines against US Postal
Service for electrical hazards at Denver mail processing facility.
OSHA's inspection found that employees were
performing testing on live electrical equipment and doing so without
adequate training, personal protective equipment and safety-related work
practices...
April 28 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA fines Lowe's Home Center $110,000 for
recordkeeping violations at Cincinnati and Dayton stores. OSHA
requires employers to record and maintain occupational injuries and
illnesses on the OSHA 300 log. "Accurate records are an
important tool that employers and workers can use to identify hazards in
the workplace, and they also enable OSHA to better target its
resources."...
April 14 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $61,500 in penalties against
Fleetpride Inc. for safety violations. An
OSHA inspection alleges that the company had damaged, inoperable
emergency lighting; exit signs not illuminated; and a damaged fall
protection lanyard not taken out of service. The company was also
cited for improper personal protective equipment, no hazard assessment
certification, no personal protective equipment training certification
and no cover on an electrical box...
April 7 2010
US
Department of Labor's OSHA cites contractor for willful and serious
safety violations following trench fatality in Atlanta
Stamar Inc. has been cited for failing to provide a safe means to
exit a 7-to9 foot trench and to provide an adequate protective system
for trenching...
March 17 2010
OSHA
cites Pecos, Texas, manufacturing facility for alleged safety and health
hazards. OSHA has cited TransPecos Foods in
Pecos for alleged workplace safety and health violations following an
inspection at the company's facility on East Palmer Road. Proposed
penalties total $69,650 for failing to protect employees from exposed
electrical wires, to provide forklift inspections, to provide a wash
station for employees during the use of corrosive chemicals and to train
employees on hazard communication...
March 17 2010
OSHA
fines Allentown, Pa., company $101,700 for failing to abate workplace
safety and health hazards. OSHA has cited
COMPUSPAR USA Inc. for failing to abate previously cited workplace
safety and health violations, including failure to maintain OSHA 300
logs; to develop and implement a hazard communication program; to train
employees on hazardous chemicals, and implement a respirator protection
program...
February 18 2010
OSHA
cites Cranesville Block Co. for safety and health hazards at Kingston,
NY, plant. OSHA has proposed $45,500 in fines
for alleged violations of health and safety standards after an
inspection prompted by employee complaints. Specific hazards
included blocked exits, workers lacking safety glasses and gloves when
working with hazardous chemicals, unlabeled containers of hazardous
chemicals, unmarked electrical equipment, exposed live electrical parts
and moisture in electrical equipment...
January 28 2010
OSHA
proposes $57,000 in penalties for trench safety violations. OSHA
is proposing $57,000 in penalties against Triangle Grading and Paving,
Inc. for safety violations that exposed its employees to cave-in hazards
working at a trench in Fort Bragg, N.C...
January 27 2010
Methuen,
Mass., contractor faces nearly $167,000 in OSHA fines for cave-in
hazards. Trenching safety hazards at two
Massachusetts worksites have led to large fines. Hazards cited
include exposure to cave-in and struck-by hazards from material stored
at a trench's edge and lack of a safe means of exit. Additional
hazards include...
January 27 2010
OSHA
proposing more than $135,000 in penalties against Atlanta stone
countertop manufacturer for health hazards. Investigations
reveal exposure of workers to excess amounts of silica by not fully
implementing a respiratory protection program, failing to fully
implement a hearing conservation program and failing to establish a
written hazard communication program...
January 25 2010
OSHA
cites contractor for cave-in hazard. A lack of
cave-in protection at a Stamford, Conn., worksite has led to $47,700 in
proposed fines...
January 7 2010
OSHA
proposes $55,200 in fines to contractor for cave-in hazard. OSHA has
cited CELCO Construction Corp. for violations of safety standards after
an OSHA inspector observed a company employee working in an unprotected
6-foot deep excavation...
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