OSHA Metal Industry Focus Leads to $114,000 in Fines for Ohio Foundry
OSHA has proposed $114,000 in fines against Cast Metals Inc. of Deshler, Ohio, for one alleged willful violation and 39 serious violations of federal workplace safety standards. The agency selected the foundry/fabrication plant for inspection as part of a local emphasis program concentrating on the primary metal industry.
The willful violation addresses the lack of lockout/tagout training for employees exposed to unexpected energization of equipment during maintenance and servicing activities. Some of the serious violations (which included 23 safety and 16 health regulation issues) address lack of personal protective equipment or face and eye protection for employees dealing with molten metal, training deficiencies, electrical hazards, silica and lead over-exposures, lack of respiratory protection training, and high-level noise exposure.
"These issues should not exist at any worksite," said Jule Hovi, director of OSHA's area office in Toledo, Ohio. "Employers must remain dedicated to keeping the workplace safe and healthful or face close OSHA scrutiny."
The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations to contest them before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.