Worker Crushed by Machinery at Vallourec Star
The Youngstown, Ohio steel mill is fined $94,000
According to a news release, OSHA has cited Vallourec Star for 22 serious safety violations due to a worker that had suffered severe injuries after being crushed between two machines. The machine operator suffered multiple fractures in his pelvis and has been unable to return to work. An investigation led to the discovery of exposure to crushing, amputation and fall hazards. Because of this, the company faces proposed fines of $94,000.
“Manufacturers that operate dangerous machinery must be aware of the daily hazards workers face while working with this machinery. Vallourec Star did not prioritize safety,” said Howard Eberts, OSHA’s area director in Cleveland, in the statement. “No worker should be injured on the job because the company failed to provide required protections.”
OSHA found that the full-time operator was crushed between an activated transfer paddle and a stationary electrical box in the plant. The injury occurred because the company did not have sufficient procedures to protect workers from moving machine parts during servicing or maintenance and failed to train workers to recognize hazards and proper machine lockout procedures. OSHA said that equipment at the mill also lacked adequate machine guards designed to prevent injuries.