Chocolate Company Fined $84K after Candy Machine Injures Worker
OSHA opened an inspection after a worker sustained head injuries while setting up operations on a machine that started up inadvertently.
OSHA has cited Tsudis Chocolate Co. for two repeat and 14 serious safety violations at its Pittsburgh candy manufacturing facility. OSHA opened an inspection after a worker sustained head injuries while setting up operations on a machine that started up inadvertently. Proposed penalties total $84,150.
“A machine was not locked out to prevent the accidental start up that caused this worker’s injuries,” said Robert Szymanski, director of OSHA’s Pittsburgh Area Office. “By not complying with OSHA’s standards, this company continues to leave its workers vulnerable to hazards that could cause serious injury and possible death.”
The repeat violations involve failing to provide workers with adequate training in safe energy control and electrical work practices. Similar violations were cited in October 2010.
The serious violations involve deficient energy control procedures, improper storage of materials, inadequate machine guarding, electrical hazards, and failing to provide proper exits/means of egress.
Tsudis employs approximately 135 workers at the Pittsburgh facility.