Mississippi Boat Manufacturer Cited
"Employers should not wait for an OSHA inspection to identify fire, explosion, and electric shock hazards as well as those associated with flammable and combustible chemicals in the workplace," said Eugene Stewart, OSHA's area director in the Jackson Office.
Nautic Star LLC has been cited by OSHA for 15 serious and eight other-than-serious safety and health violations at its facility in Amory, Miss. OSHA issued the citations on June 2 after conducting an inspection as part of its Regional Emphasis Program for Programmed Maritime Inspections. The company received serious violations for:
- Failing to provide energy control training to protect workers from machine start-up during repairs or maintenance.
- Not providing hazard communication training.
- Failing to cover 55-gallon barrels that contain flammable liquids.
- Several electrical deficiencies, such as receptacles not having cover plates, extension cords without a ground prong, and electrical equipment not approved for areas containing flammable or combustible vapors.
- Failing to ensure paint booths and spray areas were not covered with combustible paper.
OSHA's proposed penalties totaled $66,105.
"Employers should not wait for an OSHA inspection to identify fire, explosion, and electric shock hazards as well as those associated with flammable and combustible chemicals in the workplace," said Eugene Stewart, OSHA's area director in the Jackson Office. "Nautic Star must take immediate action to protect workers at this facility from serious injury or death."
Nautic Star is a top producer of bay, deck, and offshore center console boats from 18 to 28 feet, according to OSHA's news release.