Custom Nonwoven Inc. willfully exposed its workers to multiple hazards, according to a recent OSHA investigation.
The company, based in New Albany, Miss., was cited for two willful, seven serious and five other-than-serious violations.
"The hazards this company was cited for are preventable," said Courtney Bohannon, OSHA acting area director, in Jackson, Miss. in a statement. "Following basic safety requirements can be the difference between workers returning home safely or suffering a severe injury or worse."
An agency inspection on Oct. 25 found the company exposed workers to unguarded machines; electrocution and burns from exposed electrical wires and control cabinets; and falls from walkways that were not equipped with guardrails.
In addition, Custom Nonwoven, a subsidiary of Korea Synthetic Fiber, failed to provide hearing protection to its workers and did not have a written hazard communication program. The company faces penalties that total $220,544.
Custom Nonwoven has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.