Repeat Exposure Hazard Violations by a Stone Manufacturer Leads to Citations by the U.S. Department of Labor
Sims Lohman is cited for repeatedly exposing workers to machine hazards, facing more than $200K in fines.
- By Shereen Hashem
- Sep 14, 2021
A stone manufacturer in Cincinnati was cited for exposing workers to amputation hazards again when it failed to ensure machine safety procedures were followed and machine guards were in place. OSHA held an investigation and determined that Sims Lohman Inc. did not use lockout/tagout procedures to prevent workers from coming in contact with operating machine parts, including those who cut granite and other stones for area buildings and stones for other buildings and homes.
The company operated machinery with missing or inadequate guarding and improperly stored flammable liquids. According to a press release, OSHA proposed penalties of $203,826 for three repeat safety violations. Sims Lohman was cited for similar violations in February of 2020.
“Sims Lohman failed to meet its obligation to develop machine safety programs and train workers on how to control hazardous energy to prevent serious injuries,” said OSHA Area Director Ken Montgomery in Cincinnati. “Lack of adequate machine guarding remains one of OSHA's most frequently cited hazards. Employers have a responsibility to continually review and update their procedures to ensure workers are protected on the job.”
Based in Cincinnati, Sims Lohman has six manufacturing facilities in Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee.
The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director or contest the findings before the independent OSHRC.
About the Author
Shereen Hashem is the Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety magazine.