Refractory Manufacturer Cited After Worker’s Arm Amputated
The incident led OSHA to cite TYK America for 11 safety violations.
- By Alex Saurman
- May 04, 2022
A machine deficiency previously identified at one manufacturer resulted in the amputation of a worker’s arm. This incident left the manufacturer with multiple safety violations and a high penalty.
According to a press release, TYK America Inc’s location in Clairton, Pennsylvania had been previously made aware of a lack of guarding around a machine. Last year, a worker’s arm got caught in the machine, resulting in an amputation.
OSHA cited TYK America Inc for one willful violation for not making placing guarding around the machine. TYK America Inc, a refractory products manufacturer, was also cited for serious and other-than-serious violations for missing warning labels, missing guarding and exposing workers to multiple hazards. In total, there are 11 violations. The penalties total $108,769.
“TYK America Inc. could have prevented this incident by simply repairing the machine and ensuring it was properly guarded,” said OSHA Pittsburgh Area Director Christopher Robinson, in Pittsburgh in the press release. “OSHA holds employers legally responsible when they jeopardize worker safety and health.”