Serious Safety Violations Add Up to $60,900 in Fines for Ohio Firm
Violations include failing to provide machine guards on a bandsaw blade, allowing aluminum dust to collect in the shot blast machine, and failing to implement explosion protection measures for equipment and exhaust ventilation systems.
OSHA has cited Ohio Aluminum Industries in Garfield Heights, Ohio, with 14 serious safety violations carrying $60,900 in proposed fines.
The violations involve failing to provide machine guards on the bandsaw blade; failing to properly ground equipment; failing to provide personal protective equipment such as aluminized aprons and mesh-screen faceshields to protect against burns; failing to verify process safety management procedures and practices for sulfur dioxide as well as provide proper training to employees regarding safe operating practices; exposing workers to continuous noise beyond the permissible eight-hour noise exposure limit; failing to implement engineering controls to reduce noise; allowing wood dust to accumulate on the floor and surfaces in the pattern shop, and allowing aluminum dust to collect in the shot blast machine, creating the potential for an explosive dust hazard; and failing to implement explosion protection measures for equipment and exhaust ventilation systems in which there is a potential for a combustible dust explosion or fire.
"Providing machine guarding, personal protective equipment and noise reduction for workers are basic safety requirements in the workplace," said Howard Eberts, OSHA's area director in Cleveland. "Employers have a responsibility to ensure work environments are safe and healthful, which includes providing appropriate equipment and training to protect workers."