OSHA Guidance and Emphasis Programs for Printers

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

May 26 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA announces final rule affecting respiratory protection, 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 28 2011
OSHA will hold expert forum to identify regulatory options for protecting workers from combustible dust hazards.

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 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.

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:..

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 21 2010
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  

June 7 2010
OSHA virtual stakeholder meeting seeks input on combustible dust worker hazards

May 24 2010
OSHA publishes proposed rulemaking to prevent injuries from slips, trips and falls on walking-working surfaces  

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 16 2010
OSHA schedules combustible dust stakeholder meetings in Chicago to address workplace hazards.  

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 25 2010
OSHA invites interested parties to participate in meetings on combustible dust workplace hazards  

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 21 2009
OSHA issues proposed rule for combustible dust. 

October 1 2009
OSHA issues proposed rule to adopt the Globally Harmonized Hazard Communication System

September 30 2009
Notice of Injury and Illness Recordkeeping National Emphasis Program

September 9 2009
OSHA issues final rule updating personal protective equipment standards

April 29 2009
OSHA announces rulemaking on combustible dust hazards. 

Recent OSHA Citations related to the Printing Industry

January 31 2012
US Labor Department's OSHA cites manufacturer for exposing workers to multiple safety hazards at Euless, Texas, facility; proposed penalties total $44,800. Violations involve failing to keep exit areas unobstructed, provide proper machine guarding, provide forklift operator training, address electrical wiring deficiencies; mount fire extinguishers and failing to complete the OSHA 300 log of injuries and illnesses in detail as required...

January 27 2012
US Labor Department's OSHA proposes $51,680 in fines to Syracuse, NY, metal finishing plant
after employee is burned. OSHA's inspection was initiated after flammable vapors ignited in a storage room and a plant employee who tried to extinguish the fire sustained burns. Violations involve the storage and dispensing of flammable liquids, including a lack of ventilation in the storage room. Additionally, the room was not constructed to meet the National Fire Protection Association's required fire-resistance rating, numerous containers of flammable liquids were open and uncovered, flammable liquids were dispensed without the nozzle and container being electrically bonded, and a lighter was allowed to be ignited in the storage room. Additional hazards include a lack of fire extinguisher training, blocked fire extinguisher access, ungrounded electrical equipment, unlabeled containers of hazardous chemicals...

January 18 2012
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Curt Manufacturing in Eau Claire, Wis., after worker's thumb crushed by unguarded machine; $105,000 in fines proposed for multiple violations.

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 12 2012
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Newnan, Ga., manufacturer for combustible dust, PPE and other safety and health violations; proposes more than $55,000 in penalties. 

January 12 2012
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Braselton, Ga., poultry processor for machine guarding and other safety violations, proposes more than $142,000 in penalties. 

January 11 2012
Georgia plastics manufacturer cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for exposing workers to falls, shocks, combustible dust and other hazards; proposed penalties total $55,755. Violations involve failing to provide machine guarding; develop specific lockout/tagout procedures for energy sources; train maintenance workers required to perform lockout/tagout procedures; place fire extinguishers in their designated areas; address electrical deficiencies; exits were blocked by wooden crates and totes; allowing combustible dust to accumulate; failing to ensure that isolation devices were installed on dust collection systems to prevent the dust from spreading; provide noise training; label spray bottles containing acetone with a hazard warning; failing to provide workers using respirators with Appendix D of the related OSHA standard; and provide employees using tight-fitting respirators with a medical evaluation....

January 11 2012
US Labor Department's OSHA proposes $70,000 in fines against Everett, Mass., recycling company after workers injured by rotating equipment. OSHA's resulting inspection identified several serious deficiencies in the facility's hazardous energy control procedures, which should ensure machines are deactivated and their power sources locked out before employees perform maintenance work. In this case, the procedures were incomplete and not clearly communicated, training was inadequate, and the procedures were not reviewed to ensure that they were effective and understood by the employees...

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 for stairways and working platforms; 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; ensure aisles and passageways were clear; 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; deficient record keeping; 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 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; provide sanitary washing facilities as well as access to eyewash and shower stations; 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. 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...

December 20 2011
Warren Fabricating and Machining faces $47,000 in fines for lack of machine guarding, lockout/tagout and other safety violations.

December 20 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Colfor Manufacturing for exposing workers to hazardous energy sources during machine servicing. Proposed fines for Malvern, Ohio-based automotive parts manufacturer total $51,000.  

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.

December 1 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA proposes $72,900 in fines for East Boston, Mass., painting contractor for violations after employee overcome by paint vapors inside confined space.  

November 21 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA fines Paterson, NJ, company $126,000 for safety 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 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...

November 16 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA proposes $177,000 in fines to Pomfret, Conn., manufacturer for repeat, serious violations of workplace safety standards. The cited hazards include untrained employees working on live electrical equipment without adequate personal protective equipment; ungrounded lamps and electrical receptacles; damaged and misused electrical equipment and cords; not using hazardous energy control procedures during maintenance of machinery; unguarded moving machine parts; excessive buildup of combustible dust in two locations; excessive noise levels and the lack of controls to reduce noise levels; improper dispensing of flammable liquids; inadequate eyewash facilities for employees working with chemicals; unlabeled containers of hazardous chemicals; exit routes arranged so employees would have to travel toward high-hazard areas when exiting...

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 31 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites USUI International Corp. in Monroe, Ohio, for repeatedly failing to train workers in lockout/tagout procedures. Proposed fines total $90,600.

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
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 25 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Wegmans Food Market for inadequate safeguards and other hazards at corporate bakery and distribution center in Rochester, NY. More than $195,000 proposed in fines.  The retail grocery chain faces a total of $195,200 in proposed fines, chiefly for inadequate safeguards, to prevent the unintended startup of machinery during maintenance. OSHA's hazardous energy control, or lockout/tagout, standard mandates that machines be shut down and the power sources locked out before workers perform maintenance. The standard also requires proper procedures, training and equipment to ensure that machines cannot be unintentionally activated and seriously injure workers performing maintenance on machines... 

October 21 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites M-Power Chemicals in Brookshire, Texas, for respiratory, combustible dust and other hazards. Proposed penalties total $54,600.  Violations involve failing to adequately control combustible dust; failing to use noncombustible ventilation ducts; failing to electrically ground bulk container bags while being emptied; failing to keep work and storage areas clean of combustible dust; failing to develop, implement and train employees in a respiratory protection program; failing to medically evaluate and fit-test employees for respiratory protection; failing to provide warning signs to alert employees of the hazards of combustible dust; failing to use the proper filter cartridge on respirators and failing to list hazardous chemicals used in the workplace... 

October 20 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Texas-based operator of Jiffy Lube in Arlington Heights, Ill., for slip and fall hazards, other violations.  Proposed penalties total $52,700 for failing to maintain dry floors and allowing floors to be slick from oil and water accumulation, which created slip and fall hazards; failing to evaluate the workplace for hazards that necessitated the use of personal protective equipment;  provide a written hazard communication program; list and label containers of hazardous chemicals; train workers on hazards and safety precautions; improper record keeping... 

October 11 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Sifco Forge Group in Cleveland for 13 safety violations, proposes more than $84,000 in fines. Violations were cited for failing to complete, document and certify annual inspections of energy control procedures; failing to properly guard machinery; provide training on lockout/tagout procedures to prevent equipment from being unexpectedly energized; develop and maintain a written fire safety program... 

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, 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... 

September 29 2011
Sears, Roebuck and Co. in Huntsville, Ala., cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for safety violations; $128,000 proposed in fines. Violations found during an inspection of the company's department store in Huntsville include exposing workers to blocked exits, failing to post signs along exit routes, failing to repair damaged racks that caused stored merchandise to be unstable, failing to provide an adequate number of exits in a stockroom, properly mark a door with a "not an exit" sign, dispose promptly of flammable waste and failing to provide a list of hazardous materials for its hazard communication program... 

September 27 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Long Island, NY, swimming pool manufacturer after worker injury; proposed fines exceed $106,000. The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Wilbar International for 20 alleged violations of workplace safety standards after an employee's fingers were crushed while he was feeding material into a power press at the company's plant. OSHA's inspection identified numerous machine guarding and energy control hazards. Inspectors also found the absence of a hearing conservation program, electrical hazards, a blocked exit, and incomplete recording of injuries and illnesses... 

September 26 2011
Dixon Ticonderoga plant in Macon, Ga., cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for safety and health violations; $64,000 proposed in fines. OSHA began an inspection after receiving a complaint about possible hazards and found a number of safety violations including: exit routes that were inadequately lit and exit signs that were not illuminated at all; propane containers that were stored improperly; materials that were not stored in a safe manner to prevent sliding or collapse; not marking the aisles where powered industrial trucks traveled and not keeping those aisles free from obstruction. Additionally, the company did not develop lockout/tagout procedures, grinding wheel guarding was inadequate; electrical lacked covers or had improperly installed covers, conductors entering boxes that were not protected from damage, splices in wiring that were made improperly... 

September 20 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites operator of Pick 'N Save grocery in Brookfield, Wis., after worker suffers leg fracture from fall. Proposed fines total $126,000.  OSHA initiated an inspection after a worker who was riding on the forks of a powered industrial truck fell and sustained compound fractures. The violations involve exposing a worker to a recognized fall hazard while lifted on a forklift that did not have an approved personnel elevating platform, and failing to train and evaluate employees in the safe operation of powered industrial trucks... 

September 13 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites 50 safety violations, proposes $917,000 in fines against adhesives manufacturer following Middleton, Mass., explosion. OSHA's inspection identified several serious deficiencies in the company's process safety management program, a detailed set of requirements and procedures employers must follow to proactively address hazards associated with processes and equipment that involve large amounts of hazardous chemicals. Additionally the plant was found to have a range of other conditions, including an incomplete and deficient emergency response plan, inadequate training for employees required to fight fires, obstructed exit access and electrical hazards... 

September 6 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA proposes more than $121,000 in fines to Rite Aid of New York for hazards at Brooklyn store. The inspection identified several hazardous conditions including an emergency exit blocked by garbage and debris, merchandise stacked in an unsafe manner, electrical panels blocked by cardboard and totes containing merchandise, an ungrounded electric power strip and employees exposed to an electrical hazard while stacking stock. Additional violations include a stairway to the basement storage room that was too steep, too narrow and lacked slip resistant treads; an 8-foot fall hazard for employees standing on the top of a ladder to store stock; boxes of merchandise used to prop open an emergency exit door; the absence of portable fire extinguishers in a basement storage room; and the lack of a working interlock to prevent a box crusher from operating while its door was open. "One might not think of a store as a hazardous workplace, but the fact is that these conditions expose workers to potentially deadly falls, crushing injuries, burns and electrocution, as well as the inability of workers and customers to exit swiftly in the event of a fire or other emergency," said Kay Gee, OSHA's Manhattan area director... 

September 1 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Anchor Hocking in Lancaster, Ohio, for 12 safety violations after maintenance employee suffers amputation injury. OSHA opened an investigation after an incident in which a worker's right index finger became caught in the sleeve of the glass former press stem while he was performing maintenance and was amputated. Workers had not been trained in recommended "lockout/tagout" procedures for isolating the energy sources of machines to prevent their accidental operation. Anchor Hocking LLC faces $113,800 in proposed fines for the violations. Additional violations involve failing to annually inspect lockout/tagout procedures; to protect employees from falls off of an open-sided work platform; to document and train employees in adequate lockout/tagout procedures; to affix locks to hold isolation devices in the safe or "off" position; maintain the OSHA 300 log of work-related injuries and illnesses for 2010; adequately record injuries in the OSHA logs... 

August 31 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA fines Burris Logistics for safety and health hazards at Harrington, Del., warehouse.  Proposed penalties total $76,005 for violations including exposing employees to electrical hazards due to the company's failure to properly mark voltage panel boxes; properly guard voltage junction boxes and cover live electrical parts; failing to consult employees, including contractors, on the process hazard analysis and other elements of process safety management; failing to provide appropriate process safety information; provide appropriate operating procedures regarding safe shift changes, shutting down and starting up; document that the oil drain valve for one of the process pressure vessels complied with recognized and generally accepted good engineering practices; address considerations related to fluctuations in ammonia levels; conduct inspections to maintain system mechanical integrity; implement a plan for emergencies involving a potential ammonia release; provide written procedures for employees engaged in maintenance activities; place electrical equipment in an approved location; not conducting annual hearing tests... 

August 30 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Marshfield DoorSystems in Wisconsin after employee is injured by conveyor belt lacking proper machine guards.  The company faces penalties of $46,200 after a worker's hand became caught in an ingoing nip point on a conveyor belt line in March, resulting in contusions, abrasions and friction burns. A violation was cited for failing to train workers in lockout/tagout procedures to control energy sources for equipment. Additional violations involve failing to inspect energy control procedures within the past year and to install guarding to protect workers from an exposed nip point on the conveyor... 

August 24 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Altamont, NY, manufacturer for repeat, serious and other hazards; proposes more than $49,000 in fines.  Violations involve a storage cabinet for flammable liquids that did not meet fire resistance requirements, insufficient lockout/tagout, blocked and unmounted fire extinguishers, a lack of fire extinguisher training, a nonworking horn on a powered industrial truck, an unsecured power press, an unguarded grinder, lack of a high temperature or carbon monoxide alarm on a compressor used to supply breathing air to a respirator, a lack of an effective hearing conservation program, not providing medical evaluations and fit-testing for employees using respirators, incomplete or incorrect recording of occupational injuries, tripping hazards... 

August 23 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Georgia plastic manufacturer for 11 safety violations, proposes more than $51,000 in penalties.  Violations involve failing to develop lockout/tagout procedures; unguarded equipment; slip and trip hazards; open holes on junction boxes located throughout the plant; not labeling the purposes of the breakers on the electrical panel; obstructing access to the electrical panels; exposing electrical parts on equipment; not wiring a fan directly to a switch; flexible cords being used as permanent wiring... 

August 8 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Englewood, Colo.-based Meadow Gold Dairies and subcontractor for hazardous chemicals, PPE and other violations; penalties total $326,300.  An inspection of the facility was conducted under OSHA's Site-Specific Targeting program for high-hazard work sites as well as its national emphasis program on facilities with hazardous chemicals...

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 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 blocked exits, an unsecured forklift propane cylinder, 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 55-gallon drums of chemicals and not attaching warning labels to other chemical containers, having floor openings that were uncovered, open areas not guarded by standard railings, not providing proper railings, failing to mark passageways to indicate path of travel for mechanical equipment, machines were not anchored to prevent vibration and movement, improperly adjusted grinding wheel...

August 1 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Georgia-based contractor for health and safety violations following employee death due to chemical overexposure. The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Stockbridge-based Creative Multicare Inc. with five serious, two willful and one other-than-serious violation following the February death of a worker who was exposed to excessive amounts of methylene chloride while using the chemical to remove paint from a bathtub surface. The employee, who was working in a small bathroom at the Lakeshore Apartments in Clarkston, was found dead on the floor...

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 employee exposure to methylene chloride; failing to provide proper guards on machines and equipment; properly use and install equipment; provide leak detection and provisions to contain spills and safely dispose of materials contaminated with methylene chloride; ensure stairway handrails were the correct height and exit routes had the correct clearance; ensure signs directing travel to an exit route were clearly visible; properly dispose of combustible rags; 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; 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...

August 1 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Putnam, Conn., manufacturer for safety and health hazards; more than $121,000 in fines proposed.  OSHA's inspection identified a variety of hazards that can occur in a manufacturing environment, including improper storage and dispensing of flammable liquids; inadequate personal protective equipment; no annual fire extinguisher training; unguarded operating machine parts; several electrical-related hazards; and lack of a hearing conservation program. Additional violations were cited for improperly maintained OSHA illness and injury logs...

July 27 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Northeastern Wisconsin Wood Products for 18 safety and health violations; fines total nearly $379,000.  Health violations involve failing to implement a hearing conservation program; perform and certify a hazard assessment of the workplace; develop and implement a hazard communication program to include training for employees; maintain copies of material data sheets; and provide appropriate eye protection for workers. Additionally, the company allowed unsanitary conditions to pose serious fire and explosion hazards by letting sawdust accumulate...

July 27 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites 2 companies at Hamilton, Ala., plant 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; an electrical disconnect switch that was not readily accessible; inadequate hearing protection program...

July 15 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Voorhees, NJ, printing company for exposing workers to inadequate machine guarding and other hazards. AFL Web Printing faces penalties totaling $170,000 for failing to provide proper machine guarding to protect workers. Additional violations involve failing to ensure listed or labeled equipment was used in accordance with instructions, and to conduct a periodic inspection of lockout/tagout procedures of energy sources to safeguard workers from the unexpected startup of machinery during servicing or maintenance. Other violations include failing to properly post exit signs; properly store gas containers; conduct a personal protective equipment hazard assessment; provide employees with chemical resistant gloves, safety goggles and face shields; provide fire extinguisher training; ensure machines were securely anchored; develop lockout/tagout procedures; conduct monthly and annual inspections of equipment; remove damaged or defective items; close unused junction box openings; and provide a cover or faceplate for junction boxes; failing to properly label chemical containers; create a summary of illness and injury logs, and complete these logs in detail; record the injury of a temporary worker; and maintain a separate OSHA Form 300, the log of work-related injuries and illnesses, for each establishment...

July 18 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Sayreville, NJ, manufacturer for repeat workplace safety violations following amputation. The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Sabert Corp. following an incident in which a worker's finger was amputated at its Sayerville facility. The violations involve failing to ensure equipment was turned off and properly guarded to prevent contact with moving parts during servicing operations. Sabert Corp., manufactures plastic products for the food packaging industry, employs about 308 workers. Proposed penalties for the citations total $70,000...

July 15 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Voorhees, NJ, printing company for exposing workers to inadequate machine guarding and other hazards. AFL Web Printing faces penalties totaling $170,000 for failing to provide proper machine guarding to protect workers. Additional violations involve failing to ensure listed or labeled equipment was used in accordance with instructions, and to conduct a periodic inspection of lockout/tagout procedures of energy sources to safeguard workers from the unexpected startup of machinery during servicing or maintenance. Other violations include failing to properly post exit signs; properly store gas containers; conduct a personal protective equipment hazard assessment; provide employees with chemical resistant gloves, safety goggles and face shields; provide fire extinguisher training; ensure machines were securely anchored; develop lockout/tagout procedures; conduct monthly and annual inspections of equipment; remove damaged or defective items; close unused junction box openings; and provide a cover or faceplate for junction boxes; failing to properly label chemical containers; create a summary of illness and injury logs, and complete these logs in detail; record the injury of a temporary worker; and maintain a separate OSHA Form 300, the log of work-related injuries and illnesses, for each establishment...

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 28 2011
Lumber company cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA for safety and health violations following fatal electrocution. Proposed penalties total $41,310 following the death of a worker who was electrocuted at the company's Fulton facility while troubleshooting a malfunctioning starter. Violations include failing to train employees on work safety practices and allowing unqualified employees to work on energized equipment; inadequate guarding of energized parts; having a damaged electrical cord on a footswitch; not properly grounding a floor fan; failing to adequately protect electrical cables; failing to post and provide employees with a copy of the noise standard, and to include the chemical inventory in the company's hazard communication program...

June 24 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Waco, Texas, manufacturing company 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; properly guard machines; 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; provide written energy source lockout/tagout procedures; train employees on fire extinguishers; provide proper light fixture guarding; 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 21 2011
Mississippi recycling company cited by US Department of Labor's OSHA following worker's double amputation.  The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Triple P Farms Inc. after an incident in which a worker had both legs amputated when his foot got caught in a baling machine as he attempted to clear cardboard that had jammed in the machine. Proposed penalties total $73,500 for violations including failing to develop an energy control program for employees performing servicing and maintenance on equipment; failing to provide energy control training...

June 20 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Houston-based Schumacher Co. for exposing workers to hazardous chemicals; fines total $166,500.  Serious violations include failing to require employees to wear appropriate personal protective equipment while working with chemicals; develop and implement specific machine lockout/tagout procedures...

June 20 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA proposes $59,400 in penalties to San Antonio company for hearing conservation and other hazards.  Violations include failing to ensure adequate machine guarding; correct electrical deficiencies; maintain the manufacturer's identification and markings on panel boards; ensure fire extinguishers are accessible and fully operational; failing to provide a hearing conservation program...

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 16 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Huntsville, Ala., cabinet maker for exposing workers to safety and health hazards, including combustible dust. Proposed penalties total $54,000 after OSHA conducted an inspection in January as part of its National Emphasis Program on Amputations.   The cabinet maker was cited for failing to keep walls, floors and equipment clean and free from the accumulation of combustible dust; allowing more than 60 gallons of flammable liquid to be stored in cabinets; not selecting the correct personal protective equipment for workers handling chemicals; failing to have a lockout/tagout program to prevent accidental energy start-up; not having standard railings on the stairs; several electrical deficiencies; amputation hazards associated with a lack of machine guarding; not providing hearing tests for employees exposed to noise levels over the permissible exposure limit; failing to develop a respiratory protection program; exposing workers to respirable dust 3.6 times the permissible exposure limit; lacking a hazard communication program for handling hazardous chemicals and failing to visually inspect fire extinguishers at least monthly...

May 9 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Focus Direct in San Antonio for exposing workers to amputation hazards, proposes $83,000 in penalties. OSHA's San Antonio Area Office initiated a safety and health inspection on Dec. 22, 2010, at the company's facility on Broadway Street, which found that employees were exposed to unguarded rollers on printing presses. Violations include failing to provide adequate machine guarding of printing presses, provide training on energy control procedures, ensure adequate training to render first aid and ensure that all electrical components were maintained. Additional violations were cited for failing to ensure electrical cords were in working order, free from strain relief and failing to record an injury on the OSHA 300 log within seven days of a recordable incident and ensure that fire extinguishers were readily accessible...

April 20 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA proposes $229,400 in penalties to China Grove, Texas,
bakery for worker exposure to combustible dust, electrical and other hazards following finger amputation. OSHA initiated a safety and health inspection following a finger tip amputation incident. OSHA conducted a second safety inspection began as the result of a fire that occurred from excessive buildup of bread materials in the ovens and another following a report that employees were being exposed to excessive levels of noise and not being protected by a hearing conservation program. Violations include failing to ensure that employees were protected from falls; to clean combustible dust from workroom floors and other surfaces; to cover drain openings; to ensure that exits were free from obstructions and unlocked; and to ensure electrical deficiencies were corrected. Citations were also issued for failing to ensure that a metal junction box was permanently mounted in accordance with the listing and labeling required by the manufacturer; failing to record each work-related injury or illness case that met general recording criteria, and complete an incident report form for each work-related injury or illness case that met the general recording criteria...

April 18 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA proposes $126,000 in fines against Plattsburgh, NY, manufacturer for 31 safety and health violations.  OSHA found plant employees exposed to a variety of fire and explosion hazards stemming from accumulations of combustible dust, inadequate ventilation, improper storage and handling of flammable liquids, lack of an approved spray booth, use of an inappropriate liquefied petroleum gas-powered vehicle in a location containing flammable liquids, not training employees in fire extinguisher use, missing exit signage and lack of an emergency action plan. Additional hazards include lack of personal protective equipment to shield workers' bodies, eyes, faces and hands from chemical hazards; inadequate respiratory protection; fall and electrical hazards; lack of a hazard communication program and training; and failure to rate the load lifting capacity of a hook and carrier beam for overhead cranes used to lift molds. The company also was issued for incomplete illness and injury logs...

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 13 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites North Arlington, NJ, chair manufacturer for exposing workers to safety and health hazards, including combustible dust.  Sterling Seating Inc. faces $117,600 in fines for 34 workplace health and safety violations at its North Arlington facility, including exposing workers to combustible dust hazards. "Combustible dust, with its fine particulate composition, has the ability to create an explosive atmosphere and rapidly engulf a facility in fire," said Lisa Levy, director of OSHA's Hasbrouck Heights Area Office. "The accumulations of combustible dust must be removed, and a program must be put in place to prevent any potential build up from occurring." In addition to the combustible dust hazards, violations cited include failing to provide a lockout/tagout system to control the release of hazardous energy, ensure exits were unblocked, protect employees from electrical and chemical hazards, provide proper machine guarding, provide respiratory protection, and monitor formaldehyde and methylene chlorine exposure. Citations also included failing to record injury and illnesses on the OSHA 300 log and to provide workers with information on respirator limitations...

April 13 2011
US Labor Department's OSHA cites RY Timber Inc. in Livingston, Mont., for exposing workers to combustible dust hazards.  RY Timber Inc. has been cited for exposing workers to combustible dust and other hazards. The hazards were uncovered during an OSHA inspection opened Dec. 1, 2010. The agency has proposed a total of $79,200 in penalties. Other violations address deficiencies involving unguarded pulleys, chains and sprockets, as well as inadequate housekeeping in areas where combustible dust build-up had exceeded allowable limits, deficiencies in guarding of equipment and unclassified electrical equipment used in areas where combustible dust hazards exist...

March 29 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Volvo Aero Connecticut with safety violations at Newington plant. Manufacturer faces more than $83,000 in fines for combustible dust and other hazards.  Specific violations included workers being hoisted on the load hook of an overhead crane; an improperly designed combustible dust collection system; a lack of personal protective equipment; uncovered containers of flammable liquids; improper disposal of combustible rags; failure to conduct air monitoring to determine employees' exposure to hexavalent chromium; unguarded milling machines, belts, pulleys and grinders; and failure to re-evaluate workers' ability to safely operate fork trucks and provide operators with refresher training. In addition, the company was cited for several electrical safety violations. These included electrical equipment unapproved for a Class II (combustible dust) location, flexible cords used in lieu of permanent wiring, defective electrical equipment, a lack of an electrical safety-related work practices program and failure to provide such training to maintenance employees...

March 16 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Wilton, NH, direct mail printer and distributor for 17 willful and serious safety violations PEP Direct LLC faces $170,000 in fines for mechanical and electrical hazards.  OSHA's inspection found that three of the four printing presses in use at the plant lacked machine guarding to protect operators and other workers against being caught in the presses' points of operation. The presses remained unguarded despite the company's knowledge of the hazard and injuries sustained by workers. The inspection also identified numerous electrical and mechanical hazards, including allowing unqualified and untrained employees to work on and test live electrical equipment; not de-energizing and locking out the power sources for electrical equipment; a lack of personal protective equipment for employees working with electricity; not removing damaged electrical equipment from service; a lack of hazardous energy control procedures to prevent the unexpected startup of machinery during maintenance; untrained powered industrial truck operators; and additional machine guarding hazards...

February 22 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA fines Mississippi furniture manufacturer $66,000 in penalties for repeat and serious safety violations. The company is being cited for allegedly failing to label feeder and branch electrical circuits; an accumulation of explosive dust; failure to provide railings on stairs; blocked, unmarked and inadequate exits; damaged fire extinguishers; allowing safety devices to be removed from nail guns; a lack of machine guards on fan blades, staplers, pulleys, chains and sprocket wheels; multiple electrical hazards, including blocked access to electrical panels; live electrical equipment exposed to potential contact; lack of coverings for unused openings in electrical panels; flexible cords substituted for fixed permanent wiring; damaged and improperly spliced flexible cords; and wiring methods that were not approved for combustible dust. Two other-than-serious violations were cited with no proposed penalty for a lack of procedures to transfer responsibilities for lockout/tagout of energy sources between workers and for not testing equipment to verify lockout was operational...

February 17 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Mississippi sawmill with $67,800 in penalties for willful and serious safety violations.  OSHA began its inspection in October 2010 as part of a national emphasis program on combustible dust in the workplace. Proposed penalties total $67,800 for citations including an electrical junction box left open in an area where combustible dust accumulates; exposing workers to fire and electrocution; a dangerous accumulation of combustible dust; unsafe exit routes; improper dispensing of flammable liquids; failing to inspect lockout/tagout procedures of energy sources; failing to recharge fire extinguishers; lack of signage prohibiting foot and vehicle traffic in the log unloading and storage area; handling corrosive chemicals without required eyewash and safety showers; using damaged hooks on hoists to lift loads; using damaged welding cables; failing to have guardrails on elevated walkways; and failing to provide machine guarding...

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 cites south Georgia manufacturer with 46 serious safety and health violations US Erosion Control Products exposed workers to combustible dust hazards. Proposed penalties total $55,250 following an inspection that uncovered 46 alleged safety and health hazards including worker exposure to heavy accumulations of combustible dust. Citations were issued for violations that included exposing workers to explosion hazards resulting from inadequate dust control, exposing workers to dust without respiratory protection, failing to clean up thick dust accumulations, using unapproved electrical equipment and forklifts in locations that may include flammable or combustible materials, absence of a fire extinguisher in a straw storage area and fire extinguishers missing from their mounts. Additional serious citations included exposing workers to fall hazards, electrical hazards, obstructed exit routes, hazards related to the use of liquid propane gas, amputation hazards from a lack of machine guards, hazards from damaged forklifts, and hazards related to lack of eye protection and lack of a hearing conservation program...

January 25 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites APC Paper Co. Inc. for willful, repeat and serious hazards following worker's death in Claremont, NH.  APC Paper Co. Inc. faces a total of $288,000 in proposed fines after a worker was pulled into the running nip points of a paper roller while hand-feeding paper into the roller...

January 25 2011
US Department of Labor's OSHA proposes more than $79,000 in penalties against Newnan, Ga., transmission repair shop for safety and health violations.  OSHA cited the company for failing to correct hazards associated with compressed air used for cleaning parts. Other citations allege hazards associated with lockout/tagout procedures and electrical deficiencies, failure to certify powered industrial truck operators, lack of a written respirator protection program, failure to provide hazard communication training and to conduct a personal protective equipment hazard assessment...

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 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 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.  Bridgford Foods Processing also has been issued citations for having locked exit doors, failing to provide lockout/tagout or electrical safety training, failing to perform periodic energy control inspections and to maintain unobstructed exit routes, failing to properly illuminate exit signs...

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 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 multiple hazards, including wet floors in passageways, aisles and work areas.  OSHA issued citations that included failure to ensure a fiberglass ladder was set up and used correctly; failure to keep flooring dry; failure to provide working and easily accessible portable fire extinguishers...

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 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 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 17 2010
US Labor Department's OSHA fines Macon, Ga., 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 9 2010
US Labor Department's OSHA fines San Antonio printing company more than $53,000 for leaving workers vulnerable to amputations, other hazards.  Litho Press Inc. has been cited for  leaving workers vulnerable to amputations from improper machine guarding in an inspection initiated under OSHA's National Emphasis Program on Amputations.  The company 'manufactures books, magazines, directories and brochures. Violations include inadequate machine guarding and a lack of specific procedures to control hazardous energy while workers conducted cleaning and servicing operations on printing equipment. Other violations include failing to provide guardrails on elevated working areas to protect employees from falls; ensure electrical deficiencies were repaired and maintained; and provide training on the use of hazardous chemicals and methods to control hazardous energy...

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"...

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 14 2010
US Labor Department's OSHA cites Superior, Mont., companies for exposing workers to combustible dust and safety hazards.   In addition to exposure to combustible dust, citations include inadequate machine guarding, improper electrical wiring, poor housekeeping, blocked emergency doors, inadequate respiratory protection program...

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.

September 28 2010
U.S. Labor Department's OSHA cites Atlanta company with $48,000 in proposed fines for lack of written PPE hazard assessment and hazard communication program deficiencies.

September 17 2010
U.S. Labor Department's OSHA cites Batesville, Miss., picture frame manufacturer more than $228,000 for noise hazards, hazard communication and other violations.

September 7 2010
Russellville, Ala., Pilgrim Pride Corp. cited by OSHA for 29 safety and health violations with $135,000 in penalties.  OSHA found that the company had failed to utilize lockout/tagout procedures and to label containers with appropriate hazards warnings.  The company also had unmarked fire exits, lack of machine guarding, lack of hand protection, electrical deficiencies...

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 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 23 2010
OSHA fines Karl's Event Rental $85,000 for combustible dust, electrical and other 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 16 2010
Kirkhill Manufacturing of Athens, Ga., fined more than $125,000 by US Department of Labor's OSHA for safety and health hazards.   An OSHA inspection found that the plant was exposing workers to combustible dust hazards and failed to establish a lockout/tagout control program.  The company has also been cited with poor housekeeping, unguarded walking and working surfaces, failure to mount portable fire extinguishers, lack of forklift operator training, machine guarding hazards, and various electrical deficiencies...

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 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. 

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 20 2010
U.S. Department of Labor proposes $112,000 in fines against Home Depot USA for chemical hazards and inadequate safety training. 

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 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 21 2010
OSHA proposes $77,500 in fines against US Postal Service for electrical hazards at Portland, Ore., mail processing facility.   An OSHA inspection conducted in response to employee complaints found electrical hazards and failure to adequately lockout machines' power sources to prevent unexpected startup.  Workers were performing tests on live electrical equipment without adequate personal protective equipment, safety-related work practices and warning signs, as well as working on equipment that had not first been de-energized...

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 cites Mueller Copper Tube Products for exposing workers to a variety of hazards.  Proposed penalties total $70,675 for multiple health and safety hazards...

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
OSHA proposes $51,750 in penalties to Parsippany, NJ, clothing companies for workplace safety and health violations.   The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Salonika Associates LLC and Alfred Dunner Inc. for a variety of hazards, including an inadequate lockout tagout program, employee exposure to live energy sources, a lack of machine guarding, a deficient hazard communication program, an inadequate respiratory protection program, along with other health violations involving bloodborne pathogens...

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
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...

May 5 2010
Milk Specialties Co. in Whitehall, Wis., agrees to pay $535,000 in penalties after US Labor Department's OSHA safety and health investigation.    The company has agreed to pay these penalties as part of a legal settlement with OSHA after being cited for violations concerning combustible dust hazards, untrained employees working in potentially dangerous areas and a lack of proper permits for working in confined spaces...

April 28 2010
US Department of Labor's OSHA cites National Standard Co. in Stillwater, Okla., for safety and health violations with proposed penalties totaling $158,780.  Safety violations include failure to clean settled combustible dust on floors and piping, to place covers on electrical equipment, to provide adequate machine guarding...

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; improper personal protective equipment, no hazard assessment certification, no personal protective equipment training certification and no cover on an electrical box...

March 26 2010
OSHA cites Fort Worth, Texas-based FWT Inc. for alleged workplace safety and health violations.  Proposed penalties total $239,400 for OSHA citations that include failure to conduct noise monitoring, to identify and evaluate respiratory hazards...

March 18 2010
OSHA proposes $55,000 in penalties against American Warming and Ventilating, Inc. for safety violations.  OSHA opened an inspection at American Warming and Ventilating Inc. as part of its site-specific targeting program.  As a result of this inspection, OSHA has issued violations for improper lockout and tagout procedures, lack of proper machine guarding, lack of proper training...

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 protect workers from rotating parts, 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...

February 18 2010
OSHA cites Endres Processing LLC for violations of Occupational Safety and Health Act.  OSHA's inspection alleging fire and explosion hazards from combustible dust results in $137,250 in penalties...

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 acid, unlabeled containers of hazardous chemicals, unmarked electrical equipment, exposed live electrical parts and moisture in electrical equipment...

February 24 2010
OSHA proposes more than $62,000 in fines for Worldcolor Buffalo for hazards at Depew, NY, printing plant  

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