Texas Firm Fined $75,525 for Amputation Hazards
The planned inspection found that employees working on or around hazardous machinery were not properly protected.
OSHA has cited Trautschold Millwork Ltd. for 22 serious and two other-than-serious violations for exposing workers to potential amputations at the company's worksite in Waco, Texas. Proposed penalties total $75,525.
OSHA's Fort Worth Area Office began its inspection of the facility on Nov. 16, 2010, as part of the agency's National Emphasis Program on Amputations. The planned inspection found that employees working on or around hazardous machinery were not properly protected.
"This company exposed its employees to numerous safety hazards that could result in serious injuries," said Zachary Barnett, OSHA's area director in Fort Worth. "OSHA's standards must be followed to prevent the loss of limb and life."
The serious violations include failing to provide adequate guarding on hazardous machinery such as sanders, saws, grinders and staple guns; ensure workers were protected from electrical hazards such as explosive proof wiring; provide training for employees who operate forklifts; ensure the use of respiratory and personal protective equipment; and provide a written personal protective equipment hazard assessment.
The other-than-serious violations include failing to meet OSHA's standards that apply to emergency exits and to provide training on the use of a fire extinguisher.
Trautschold Millwork, which specializes in custom millwork, doors, cabinets, and windows, employs about 31 workers.