OSHA Cites Illinois Firm for Failing to Protect Workers from Hazardous Conditions

"Strong enforcement is a key part of this administration's efforts to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses," said Michael Connors, OSHA's regional administrator in Chicago. "The significant penalty of $119,000 in this case demonstrates our commitment to protecting the health and safety of America's workers."

OSHA issued willful citations to Chem-Cast for failing to lockout machinery during cleaning operations and tooling changes, and for failing to guard machinery to prevent workers from being injured by moving parts. Two citations categorized as serious alleged that the company did not provide training in the use of energy control devices and failed to conduct annual or more frequent inspections of the energy control procedure.

Machine guarding deficiencies and failing to lockout machinery during maintenance or other servicing activities are among the leading causes of amputations and can result in fatal accidents.

The company has 15 working days from receipt of the citations to appeal before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.