OSHA Penalizes GM and LG Energy Solution Joint Venture for $270,091 in Violations

Ultium Cells LLC faces hefty fines following extensive OSHA investigations.

  • By Robert Yaniz Jr.
  • Oct 17, 2023

Warren, Ohio-based Ultium Cells LLC, a joint venture between General Motors and LG Energy Solution, is now the subject of OSHA violations, amounting to $270,091 in proposed penalties.

A string of investigations was triggered by a March 2023 explosion and additional safety complaints at the battery manufacturing plant. In less than two weeks, OSHA opened four inspections, ultimately citing the company for 17 serious and two other-than-serious violations.

OSHA inspectors concluded that the company jeopardized worker safety through inadequate training on emergency response procedures and neglecting to employ vital safety measures. This oversight included the absence of machine guarding, inadequate hazardous energy control training, improper use of PPE and failure to provide safe access, creating trip and fall risks.

“Ultium Cells’ technology and advanced manufacturing facilities are part of a new and emerging field but workplace safety standards — such as machine guarding, personal protective equipment and emergency response training — have been the law for decades,” OSHA Area Director Howard Eberts in Cleveland said in a statement. “The company’s focus on the future must include an emphasis on workplace safety to ensure the well-being of its employees.”

Since it began battery cell production in August 2022, OSHA has cited the Warren facility 11 times. OSHA still has an open inspection there following a fire in June 2023 and three inquiries, including an incident in August 2023 in which workers were exposed to a battery spill. Ultium Cells LLC also has facilities under construction in Michigan and Tennessee.

The company now has 15 business days to either comply, request an informal discussion with OSHA or challenge the findings with the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

About the Author

Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety.

Product Showcase

  • EMSL Analytical, Inc. - Air Sampling Supplies & Testing Labs

    EMSL Analytical, Inc. operates laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for Asbestos, Mold, Silica, Lead & Metals, Bacteria, Legionella, USP , Combustion By-Products, VOC’s, Radon, PCB’s, Formaldehyde, METH/Fentanyl, Identification of Dust & Unknowns. Sampling Pumps, Cassettes, Media & Supplies available. Reach us at 1-800.220.3675 3

  • Safety Knives

    The Safety Knife Company has developed a quality range of safety knives for all industries. Designed so that fingers cannot get to the blades, these knives will safely cut through cardboard, tape, strapping, shrink or plastic wrap or a variety of other packing materials. Because these knives have no exposed blades and only cut cardboard deep, they will not only protect employees against lacerations but they will also save product. The Metal Detectable versions have revolutionary metal detectable polypropylene knife bodies specifically for the food and pharmaceutical industries. This material can be detected and rejected by typical detection machines and is X-ray visible. 3

  • Magid® D-ROC® GPD412 21G Ultra-Thin Polyurethane Palm Coated Work Gloves

    Magid’s 21G line is more than just a 21-gauge glove, it’s a revolutionary knitting technology paired with an advanced selection of innovative fibers to create the ultimate in lightweight cut protection. The latest offering in our 21G line provides ANSI A4 cut resistance with unparalleled dexterity and extreme comfort that no other 21-gauge glove on the market can offer! 3

Featured

Most   Popular

Webinars