“At this time, we are working together with OSHA to ensure all necessary safety precautions are being taken,” says Enriquez. “As noted in the Citation and Notification of Penalty, there has not yet been a finding that a violation of the OSH Act has occurred. We are confident that OSHA and Earth Friendly Products can and will work together to resolve this matter expeditiously.”
OSHA cited the company’s Norwood, New Jersey facility for 23 serious safety and health violations. OSHA initiated an inspection in response to a complaint and allegedly found workers being exposed to machine guarding, confined space and flammable liquid storage and handling hazards, among other violations.
"The large number and extensive range of safety and health hazards found at this establishment are of great concern to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration," said Lisa Levy, OSHA's area director in Hasbrouck Heights. "This employer needs to address the hazards to prevent injuries from occurring at its facility."
The company plans to exercise its right to meet with OSHA to discuss the citations.
“At Earth Friendly Products, our number one concern is the health and safety of our employees,” said Tony Polyviou, the general manager of the New Jersey facility. “We take all safety regulations seriously and have already addressed all of OSHA’s comments. We look forward to our meeting with the officials of OSHA on Wednesday, July 11th to resolve any remaining items as quickly as possible.
“Being a leader in the industry for 45 years, Earth Friendly Products is proud to stand by our excellent safety track record and will continue to operate all of our facilities with the utmost care and consideration for the health and safety of our employees,” he added.