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Pennsylvania factory fined following injury

On Behalf of | Aug 14, 2013 | Firm News

A candy factory in the Pittsburgh area is facing an $87,260 fine. The fine for alleged workplace safety violations was initiated following an investigation by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

In February of this year, a machine in the factory started unexpectedly and crushed a worker’s hand and wrist. This is the second time in as many years that the company is facing a serious fine from OSHA. The company, Tsudis Chocolate Co., was fined $84,000 last year. In an October 2011 incident, a worker suffered serious head injuries when a piece of equipment that was being set up turned on unexpectedly. OSHA believes that the company is not taking sufficient care to make sure the machines are locked.

One hundred thirty five employees work at the RIDC Park business complex plant in O’Hara Township. Officials from the chocolate company did not immediately return calls to comment on the proposed fine that was announced this week.

A workplace accident, especially one that results in injury, can bring many issues to light. Companies, with the support of their insurance companies, may be uncooperative with making sure the injured person receives the medical attention and understanding that they need to recover. Workers’ compensation laws can be complex, and an attorney may assist the injured worker as they go through the stages of treatment, recovery and returning to the workplace. An attorney may be able to assure that a workers’ compensation claim is not denied in error, that benefits are calculated correctly and that a lawsuit is filed if necessary for the injured worker’s legal rights to be maintained.

Source: 10 TV, “OSHA seeks $87K for injury at Pa. chocolate plant”, August 13, 2013

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