Pride Plating Inc. Cited for Exposing Workers to a Cancer-Causing Health Hazard
OSHA cited the company with 38 violations, adding up to $341,550 in fines
Pride Plating Inc. is being cited by OSHA for exposing workers to cancer-causing health hazards by inhaling, absorbing and ingesting hexavalent chromium, according to a news release. The company was cited for 38 violations with a proposed fine of $341,550.
“The chromium standard addresses exposure. OSHA has documented and cited three routes of exposure in this case,” said David Bates, OSHA’s area director in Oklahoma City, in the statement. “At Pride Plating, workers were exposed to hexavalent chromium through spray painting and dip tank operations, and in the lunchroom and smoking areas.
Nine repeat violations were cited for chromium violations, including failure to provide safe personal protective equipment for workers exposed to chromium; demarcate regulated areas where chromium was sprayed; prevent ingestion of food and drinks and absorption of cigarettes in chromium-regulated areas; and properly train workers exposed to the facility’s chromium, caustics and corrosives. These violations come with a penalty of $180,180.
The remaining violations were cited for failure to provide adequate walking and working surfaces; separate locker space and storage for street clothing and protective clothing; perform personal protective equipment hazard assessments; and guard power transmission belts. Respirator violations included failing to implement a respiratory program and fit test and ensure respirators were stored in a sanitary location. Chromium violations included failure to inform workers of their exposure records, provide adequate washing facilities and label chemical containers. The violations added up to 29 in total for a penalty of $161,370.