OSHA Cites Illinois Metal Treating Company For 21 Violations
After two employees suffered electrical shock injuries while cleaning a metal tank, the agency found that the company did not use proper electrical safety work practices.
OSHA has cited an Illinois metal treating company for 21 serious health and safety violations, the agency announced on June 28. The company is facing $181,662 in penalties.
The agency inspected Hudapack Metal Treating of Illinois, Inc. in December after an employee cleaning the inside of a metal tank was electrocuted by a damaged portable lamp, according to an OSHA news release. A second employee also suffered electrical shock injuries while trying to help their injured colleague.
The inspectors determined the lamp was “unsuitable for use in wet locations” after discovering the lamp’s cord had exposed bare conductors. The extension cord connecting the lamp to power was also damaged, according to OSHA.
Hudapack was cited for failure to use electrical safety work practices, not training employees about electrical hazards, failure to provide appropriate personal protective equipment, failure to repair damaged electrical outlets and exposing employees to falls, among others.
"This tragedy underscores the requirement that companies provide training on working safely with electricity, and conduct regular assessments of existing work conditions to eliminate potential safety hazards," said Jacob Scott, the OSHA Area Director in Naperville, Illinois.
The agency provides guidelines for electrical hazard recognition, including issues with power cords.