A recent inspection conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) at a Texas-based manufacturing company uncovered egregious workplace safety and health violations, leading to fines totaling more than $596,000. The violations, including two willful safety citations and one willful health citation, highlighted serious risks to employee safety and well-being.
Manufacturer Willfully Exposed Employees to Safety and Health Hazards
The inspection, part of OSHA’s National Emphasis Program on amputations in manufacturing industries, identified a total of 58 violations at the manufacturer. Among these were significant lapses in safety measures, including the absence of machine guards that exposed workers to the potential for amputations, rotating parts, and flying debris. Additionally, the company failed to establish and maintain an audiometric testing program for employees exposed to excessive noise, leading to a willful health citation.
Diego Alvarado, OSHA’s Area Director in Texas, expressed deep concern about the widespread safety and health hazards discovered during the inspection. Alvarado emphasized the severity of these violations, noting their potential to cause severe and permanent injuries to employees. He underscored the urgent need for the manufacturer to prioritize employee safety and comply with federal safety and health laws without delay.
The list of violations included serious breaches such as the absence of lockout/tagout systems to prevent machine start-ups, improper storage practices, lack of employee training on energy control procedures, and several electrical hazards. OSHA proposed a penalty of $596,221 against the manufacturer, a sum determined by federal statute for the identified violations.
The manufacturer was given 15 business days from the receipt of citations and penalties to address the violations, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Conclusion
This case serves as a stark reminder to businesses, particularly small and midsize enterprises, of the criticality of maintaining stringent safety measures and compliance with federal regulations. Adhering to safety protocols isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a fundamental responsibility toward safeguarding employees’ well-being and preventing workplace hazards. Compliance ensures a safe work environment, fosters employee trust, and avoids hefty penalties that can severely impact a business’s financial health and reputation. Businesses must prioritize safety protocols and promptly address any identified safety gaps to protect their most valuable asset: their employees.