OSHA Fines Amsterdam, N.Y., Firm $120,000 for Alleged Safety and Health Hazards

Sept. 26, 2005
An Amsterdam, N.Y., pallet recycler's alleged failure to safeguard workers against a wide range of safety and health hazards has resulted in $120,000 in OSHA fines. Power Pallet Inc. was cited for alleged willful and serious safety and health violations following an inspection OSHA began March 15.

OSHA's inspection alleged that the company failed to develop specific procedures for shutting down machines and locking out their power sources to prevent accidental startup during maintenance or repair work. The company also allegedly failed to train workers on these procedures, provide an adequate supply of locks and ensure their use.

"The absence of lockout/tagout procedures, training and tools leaves workers exposed to the potentially fatal hazard of being caught in machinery that's accidentally energized," said John Tomich, OSHA's area director in Albany. "This employer knew these safeguards were required, yet apparently chose not to provide them."

As a result, OSHA cited the company for three alleged willful violations with a proposed penalty of $115,500. Four serious citations, carrying $4,500 in fines, also were issued. These covered alleged hazards involving:

  • Obstructed exit access;
  • Lack of engineering and administrative controls to reduce noise exposure;
  • Not training workers on all required elements of a hearing conservation program;
  • Lack of labeling on a motor disconnect; and
  • Improper machine guarding on nail grinders.

Sponsored Recommendations

3 Essential Elements for a Strong Safety Culture

March 13, 2024
Organizations globally have increased their attention on safety culture: trying to figure out what it really is and the aspects that are necessary to develop and sustain it. And...

Making the Case for Occupational Health Software

March 13, 2024
Deciding to invest in Occupational Health (OH) software can be a challenging leap for many organizations. This article will equip businesses with insightful strategies for effectively...

Fighting the Flu: Solutions for the Workplace

March 13, 2024
Seasonal flu continues to wreak considerable havoc both on individual wellness, as well as on our business continuity and productivity. Explore these solutions for protecting ...

Preventing SIFs with Digitization: Reduce Serious Injuries and Fatalities with Technology

March 13, 2024
This eBook discusses the origins of SIF prevention, outlines principles, models and tools available to EHS leaders to better detect and address SIF potential in their business...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!