Auto Parts Maker Racks Up $51,000 in Fines for Hazardous Energy Sources
The repeat violation is for failing to lock out the energy sources of mechanical and hydraulic forging presses during die changes, servicing, and/or maintenance. Colfor Manufacturing was cited for the same violation in February 2010.
OSHA has cited Colfor Manufacturing Inc. for four safety violations, including a repeat violation for failing to protect workers by locking out the energy sources of presses at its Malvern, Ohio, facility, following an inspection that began in October. The company manufactures automotive parts using hot and cold forging methods. Proposed fines total $51,000.
"Employers who are cited for repeat OSHA violations demonstrate a lack of commitment to employee safety and health," said Deb Zubaty, director of OSHA's Columbus Area Office. "Employers are responsible for knowing the hazards that exist in their workplaces and implementing relevant safety standards. OSHA is committed to protecting workers, especially when employers fail to do so."
The repeat violation is for failing to lock out the energy sources of mechanical and hydraulic forging presses during die changes, servicing, and/or maintenance. Colfor Manufacturing was cited for the same violation in February 2010.
The company also has been cited with three serious violations for failing to use specific procedures for the control of hazardous energy, to use group hazardous energy control procedures for multiple exposed workers conducting maintenance on presses, and to inspect energy control procedures at least annually.
Colfor Manufacturing, a subsidiary of Detroit-based American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings Inc., has been inspected by OSHA 13 times since 1990, resulting in citations for 52 violations.