Unsafe Crane Conditions Result in $159,000 in Fines for Rebar Firm
OSHA has cited MJ Associates Inc. for numerous alleged safety and health violations, totaling $159,000 in proposed fines. The Philadelphia company cuts and forms rebar for the construction industry. OSHA initiated its investigation of the facility, which employs 49 people, on January 30 in response to a complaint alleging fall hazards, and failure to inspect and maintain conveyors and cranes. The investigation resulted in three willful and 51 serious violations.
The willful violations include failure to correct unsafe conditions disclosed by crane inspections, and provide appropriate guarding on rotating parts. The serious violations include the company's failure to ensure that cranes were not used to lift materials beyond their rated load capacity. The company also failed to provide fall protection, inspect cranes and mark exit route doors.
"It is imperative that MJ Associates Inc. corrects these violations to prevent injuries or death," said Al D'Imperio, director of OSHA's Philadelphia Area Office, which conducted the investigation. "Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthy work environment for their employees."