OSHA Cites Pennsylvania Feed Mill
"In some areas, 6 inches or more of dust had accumulated, creating a dangerous risk of explosion," said Theresa A. Naim, director of OSHA's Erie Area Office.
OSHA has cited Mattocks Five Inc., d/b/a Albion Mill, a feed mill in Albion, Pa., five willful, nine repeat, and 12 serious safety and health violations and one other-than-serious violation, issuing $195,460 in proposed penalties, after finding the company ignored previously identified combustible dust and grain-handling hazards.
The agency's inspection on Feb. 10, 2016, was a follow-up of previous inspections conducted in 2013, according to OSHA. Its inspectors identified willful violations when the company allowed employees without proper safety equipment to enter a grain-handling bin; allowed machines to be operated with unguarded belts, pulleys, and shafts; failed to implement a housekeeping program to prevent workers' exposure to combustible dust; and did not maintain inspection certification records when servicing equipment.
"Our follow-up inspection at Albion Mill found employees continue to be exposed to severe combustible dust issues. In some areas, 6 inches or more of dust had accumulated, creating a dangerous risk of explosion," said Theresa A. Naim, director of OSHA's Erie Area Office. "This company had ample opportunity, time, and guidance to correct the hazardous conditions but chose business as usual by disregarding the safety of its employees."
Mattocks Five Inc. requested an informal conference with OSHA's area director; it took place Aug. 8 and is ongoing, according to OSHA's announcement.