Sources say that a Pennsylvania company was recently cited by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for repeated safety violations at its Shippensburg location. In August 2013, as the result of a complaint, OSHA initiated an inspection that has led to more than $163,000 in proposed fines for 26 safety violations. The company is facing penalties for seven repeat violations, 16 serious safety violations and three violations listed as other-than-serious.
Some of the serious violations include workers’ exposure to electrical and tripping hazards, the operation of unrepaired cranes, insufficient crane inspections, improperly equipped platforms, absence of preventive maintenance programs and improper installation of ladders. Repeat violations include inadequate railings, lack of identification on alloy steel slings, electrical hazards and missing junction box covers. Similar citations were issued in both 2011 and 2013. Other-than-serious violations include damaged equipment parts and inadequate rails on stairs.
A spokesperson for OSHA says that by not correcting the infractions, the company is putting its employees at risk for serious injury or death, a situation that OSHA says it will not tolerate. The spokesperson added that companies will be held accountable for not maintaining a safe work environment.
If a workplace injury occurs, the worker may be eligible for workers’ compensation, which may include medical treatment expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs and disability. Those who have suffered an on-the job injury may want to consider discussing their situation with an attorney to see what their options are for filing a claim. An attorney may be able to provide guidance throughout the filing process.
Source: Recycling Today, “OSHA fines Pennsylvania foundry for repeat violations“, March 12, 2014