Resources for workplace safety

Crown Equipment Earns Recognition from National Safety Council

2011-12-22T09:31:30-06:00

Crown Equipment Corporation recently announced that eight of its facilities have received lift-truck operator awards from the National Safety Council for outstanding safety practices. The award recognizes forklift operators for operator excellence in lift-truck operations by operating lift-truck fleets without recordable or lost-time injuries. The seven manufacturing facilities and one distribution center are all located in Ohio and support Crown’s global business.

This is not the first time Crown and its facilities have been recognized by the National Safety Council. In 2010, the company received an Occupational Excellence Achievement Award for its achievements and implementation of effective safety programs and initiatives. In that same year, the company’s manufacturing facility in Greencastle, Ind., was recognized for achieving 1 million consecutive man-hours (10 years) without a lost-time injury.

“At Crown Equipment, we take great pride in safety ex

Honeywell Adsorbents Used to Remove Radiation at Japanese Nuclear Plant

2011-12-09T09:52:36-06:00

UOP LLC, a Honeywell company, recently announced that its adsorbent ion-exchange products are successfully being used by Toshiba Corporation and Shaw Global Services LLC for the cleanup of radiation-contaminated water at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan.

The Simplified Active Water Retrieve and Recovery System (SARRY) is utilizing UOP IONSIV Ion Exchangers to remove and reduce radioactive materials in the contaminated wastewater. The wastewater at Fukushima Daiichi was contaminated after the earthquake and tsunami in Japan earlier this year.

"Our thoughts are with those who have been affected by this disaster," said Mike Millard, vice president and general manager of Catalysts, Adsorbents and Specialties for Honeywell's UOP. "Honeywell's UOP is proud that our advanced ion-exchange products are successfully supporting the efforts to tre

Corporate Culture Cited as Root Cause of Mine Disaster

2011-12-08T13:28:53-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) recently announced that it has imposed a fine of more than $10 million following its investigation into the April 2010 explosion at the Upper Big Branch-South Mine, which was operated by Performance Coal Co., a subsidiary of Massey Energy Co.

The explosion killed 29 miners and injured two, making it the worst U.S. coal mining disaster in 40 years. A report concluded that Massey's corporate culture was the root cause of the tragedy. MSHA has issued Massey and PCC 369 citations and orders.

"The tragic explosion at Upper Big Branch left dozens of families without husbands, fathers, brothers and sons," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "I made a pledge to the families of those we lost and the entire mining community to conduct the most complete and thorough investigation possible in order to find the cause of this disaster. The results of the investigation lead to the con

Nalco Plant Named Louisiana SAFE Award Winner

2011-11-07T14:08:43-06:00

Nalco has announced that its plant in Garyville, La., has been honored by the Louisiana Chemical Association (LCA) with a 2011 SAFE (Serious About Fostering Excellence) Award for the facility's environmental and safety performance and community outreach efforts.

The Garyville Plant was recognized as the best in Louisiana for class two locations with 101 to 200 full-time employees. The SAFE program evaluates a plant's performance in employee safety, contractor safety, environmental efforts and "good neighbor" activities with local communities. Winners are selected from almost 100 facilities statewide.

"Health and safety, strong environmental performance and keeping our plants, products and people secure are top priorities for all LCA members," said Dan Borne, LCA president. "Chemical manufacturers work relentlessly on this because great performance every day in these critical areas is equally important to folks who live in communities wher

Georgia-Pacific Names Winner of Great American Worker Contest

2011-09-29T15:54:51-05:00

After a nationwide search to find America’s greatest and most hard-working heroes, Georgia-Pacific Professional recently named James Bennett of Harlingen, Texas, as the winner of the 2011 Brawny Industrial Great American Worker Contest.

Bennett, an engineering manager at Cardone Industries, was selected as the national winner because of his leadership in streamlining processes, educating and mentoring his co-workers and his complete dedication to his job. In addition to being named the Brawny Industrial Great American Worker, Bennett is also a winner of a new 2011 Ford F-150 truck.

The contest, which ran from January through June, called for supervisors, co-workers, family and peers to submit a short nomination about someone who excels in their workplace and demonstrates the qua

Why Reliability Excellence is Imperative for Safety

2011-08-16T08:20:22-05:00

We tend to speak about financial issues more than moral issues in the business world. Safety is an issue that has significant ramifications from both moral and financial perspectives.

Safety is a financial imperative in today’s business world. According to a 2010 Liberty Mutual study, the annual documented direct and indirect industry cost of U.S. workplace accidents totaled $240 billion per year. The average cost to industry for a fatal accident ranges from a low estimate by the National Safety Council of $1.27 million to the enormous average of $8.6 million per fatality paid out by BP after its refinery explosion.

According to an Air Force study, the average cost of a permanent disability is $1.3 million, while a partial disability costs $210,000. Workers’ compensation premiums, which correlate directly to your accident and incident rate, amount to millions of dollars per year in even a modest-sized company. Any way you look at it, accidents are expensive.

NMHG Receives Carolina Star Award

2011-08-04T11:05:44-05:00

NACCO Materials Handling Group (NMHG), makers of Hyster and Yale lift trucks, recently received the prestigious Carolina Star Safety Award at a ceremony hosted by the North Carolina Department of Labor.

In order to qualify for the award, the company had to pass an initial assessment to prove that its facilities are a safe, healthy and productive work environment. The six elements that constitute the Carolina Star’s SEE and ACT requirements are statistics, everyone’s commitment, employee involvement, analyze hazards, control risks and training.

As the latest recipient of the Carolina Star Safety Award, NMHG joins a select group of 135 North Carolina sites.

“NMHG would like to express our gratitude to the North Carolina Department of Labor and Pitt County

ABB Facility Sets Safety Record

2011-07-20T15:37:47-05:00

By exceeding 2.5 million hours worked without a lost-time incident at both its New Berlin, Wis., campus and Fort Smith, Ark., facility, ABB has proven that a safety culture and engaged safety teams can help improve bottom-line performance.

At the company’s New Berlin facility, the number of employees has increased to more than 100 volunteers serving on numerous safety committees. The strong emphasis on safety helped the campus become the first ABB facility in North America to achieve the OSHA VPP Star Level of performance.

DuraLabel Announces Free Printer Loaner Program

2011-07-12T13:23:49-05:00

DuraLabel has announced that it will provide a free printer for qualified customers who need repairs, cleaning or tune-ups. The benefit is increased productivity and fewer work interruptions. DuraLabel printers are used to create industrial signs and labels for applications such as general safety, arc flash, pipe marking and lockout/tagout.

Once loaners are received, machines are tested and serviced. Servicing may include updating firmware, updating print headsprings, checking print head alignment and cleaning print head, platen roller, media guides and cutter assemblies. Usually loaners are returned within a week after the original printer is returned. Whenever DuraLabel customers are without a printer and they have a critical labeling job to manage, they receive a loaner. Overnight loaners are available, too.

“Customers are usually surprised and delighted to hear about the free loaner because we’ve all become so accustomed to paying extra for help,&rdq

Toyota Industrial Equipment Receives National Safety Council Award

2011-07-06T14:58:26-05:00

Toyota Industrial Equipment Manufacturing Inc. (TIEM) was recently awarded the Occupational Excellence Achievement Award by the National Safety Council.

The award is given to companies that have a lost-time injury rate of less than 50 percent of companies in the same business classification. The National Safety Counci

Kimberly-Clark Professional Introduces Healthy Workplace Project Award

2011-06-29T13:25:13-05:00

Kimberly-Clark Professional has announced a new awards program designed to recognize and reward companies that have made a comprehensive corporate commitment to better hand and surface hygiene in the workplace as well as to the education of its employees in the importance of "wash, wipe and sanitize" office hygiene.

The Healthy Workplace Project Award, an additional initiative of Kimberly-Clark's landmark The Healthy Workplace Project, will be awarded to companies that have demonstrated a sustained, significant effort toward breaking the cycle of germ transmission in the workplace. The award recognizes and celebrates the implementation of best practices around office hygiene initiatives as well as employee engagement and education. The announcement of the awards program was made at the 2011 Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International Conference in Washington, D.C.

"We are delighted to introduce a new awards program for companies devel

Meltric Unveils New DSDC Series Plugs and Receptacles

2011-06-21T09:58:12-05:00

Meltric Corporation of Franklin, Wis., a manufacturer of industrial-duty electrical plugs and receptacles, has introduced a new product line for electrical equipment powered by direct currents. Meltric’s DSDC Series plugs and receptacles provide safer and more robust connections for direct-current applications up to 200 amps at 250VDC, up to 100 amps at 600 VDC or up to 30 amps at 750 VDC.

The DSDC product line offers exclusive safety features including a dead-front safety shutter that prevents user access to live parts and a padlockable pawl that enables easy locking in the connected or disconnected mode. DSDC Series plugs and receptacles utilize solid silver-nickel contact surfaces for maximum performance and durability along with spring-loaded, butt-style conta

DuPont Launches "Dirty Work" Photo Contest

2011-06-20T08:49:47-05:00

DuPont Protection Technologies has announced the launch of the DuPont™ Tyvek® “Dirty Work” Photo Contest. This online contest showcases ways in which workers use Tyvek® garments to help keep safe and clean while performing the dirtiest jobs. Tyvek® provides breathable barrier protection and is used in a myriad of industries ranging from general maintenance to mold remediation to help protect workers from dry particles, aerosols, dirt and grime.

All people who wear Tyvek® garments on the job and are over the age of 18 are eligible to enter the contest. Entrants are asked to take an original photo of themselves in their filthiest state wearing a Tyvek® garment after completing their “dirty work,” then submit the photo to the contest website. Entrants also can submit their photos online via a mobile device. Entrants’ photos will be shown in an online gallery.

“Tyvek® offers lightweight and durable protection

Durasol cited for emergency response, respirator, chemical, electrical and other hazards

2011-01-20T15:52:34-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Durasol Corporation for 13 alleged serious violations of workplace health and safety standards at its Amesbury, Mass., manufacturing plant. The manufacturer of hard gum erasers faces a total of $43,800 in proposed fines.

OSHA cites Miami firm for failing to protect employees from lead exposure

2011-01-20T15:45:45-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued citations to Lead Enterprises Inc. in Miami, Fla., alleging that the company knowingly neglected to protect employees from lead exposure. The company is being cited with 32 safety and health violations, and $307,200 in total proposed penalties.

NAM says OSHA withdrawal of noise proposal is positive step for job growth

2011-01-19T13:11:20-06:00

National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) vice president for human resources policy Joe Trauger issued the following statement on January 19 regarding the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) withdrawal of its proposed changes to noise control requirements.

OSHA withdraws proposed interpretation of occupational noise

2011-01-19T09:17:31-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration on January 19 announced that it is withdrawing its proposed interpretation titled “Interpretation of OSHA’s Provisions for Feasible Administrative or Engineering Controls of Occupational Noise.” The interpretation would have clarified the term “feasible administrative or engineering controls” as used in OSHA’s noise standard. The proposed interpretation was published in the Federal Register on October 19, 2010.

Poll: Fortune 500 firms prohibit employees from using cell phones while driving

2011-01-19T08:11:13-06:00

One out of five Fortune 500 companies that responded to a recent National Safety Council survey has a total ban on cell phone use while driving that covers all employees. More than half of these policies were implemented since 2008 – indicating corporate America is heeding the public’s growing call to eliminate cell phone use behind the wheel.

National Safety Council seeks applicants for 2011 Robert W. Campbell Award

2011-01-19T08:08:18-06:00

The National Safety Council invites organizations around the world to apply for the 2011 Robert W. Campbell Award, the world’s pre-eminent award recognizing business excellence in integrated environmental, health and safety performance. The 2011 winners will be announced at the NSC Congress & Expo, scheduled for October 30 to November 4 in Philadelphia.

Survey: 72% of workers go to work when they are sick

2011-01-19T07:31:50-06:00

Sniff, sniff. Achoo! With cold and flu season in full swing, these sounds are likely to be heard around the office. A new CareerBuilder survey finds that nearly three-quarters (72 percent) of workers typically go to work when they are sick. Workplace pressures and "presenteeism" may be causing workers to go in under the weather, as more than half (55 percent) of workers said they feel guilty if they call in sick. The CareerBuilder survey was conducted nationwide from November 15 to December 2, 2010 among more than 3,700 workers.

Brady to offer online training on lockout/tagout compliance, visual workplace

2011-01-18T14:18:31-06:00

This week, Brady Corporation announced the debut of its new eLearning training program, a series of Web-based training courses on workplace safety and productivity. Brady launched the eLearning platform with two comprehensive training modules: a lockout/tagout compliance program and a visual workplace program.

Standards covers safety through slip-resistant flooring

2011-01-18T13:53:29-06:00

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2008 more than 8.5 million Americans sustained injuries from an unintentional slip or fall—the leading cause of all nonfatal injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms. According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), a member and accredited standards developer of the American National Standards Institute, 55 percent of slips and falls are caused by a hazardous floor, but are preventable if slip-resistant flooring is in place.

Guidance on permit-required confined spaces

2011-01-17T08:28:08-06:00

OSHA's standard on permit-required confined spaces (PRCS) says entry occurs as soon as any part of the entrant's body breaks the plane of the opening into the permit space. As clarified in an OSHA Letter of Interpretation (LOI) dated October 18, 1995, "When any part of the body of an entrant breaks the plane of the opening of a PRCS large enough to allow full entry, entry is considered to have occurred and a permit is required, regardless of whether there is an intent to fully enter the space."

U.S. Steel, Power Piping cited for energy control hazards following July 2010 explosion

2011-01-14T08:33:49-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited U.S. Steel Corporation and Power Piping Company with safety citations for failing to provide an effective energy control procedure and exposing workers to burns following an explosion at U.S. Steel's Clairton Works facility in Clairton, Pa.

MSHA report shows mining deaths rose in 2010

2011-01-14T08:24:27-06:00

Mining fatalities in the United States significantly increased in 2010, following a year marked by the fewest deaths in mining history, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration. Seventy-one miners died on the job last year, compared to 34 in 2009. Forty-eight of those deaths occurred in coal mines, and 23 occurred at metal and nonmetal operations.

Bridgford Foods Processing fined $212,000 for endangering workers

2011-01-12T12:57:09-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued the Bridgford Foods Processing Corporation facility in Chicago 10 safety citations for failing to implement and provide training for workers on lockout/tagout procedures, thereby exposing them to energized equipment. The meat processing plant is facing proposed penalties of $212,000.

OSHA cites Louisiana chemical plant with 14 workplace safety and health violations

2011-01-12T12:51:31-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Georgia Gulf Chemicals & Vinyls LLC with 14 serious violations for exposing workers to multiple safety and health hazards at the company's facility in Plaquemine, La. Proposed penalties total $55,000.

Federal judge hands down preliminary injunction against Rosebud Mining Company

2011-01-12T08:07:11-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration on January 11 announced that a federal judge with the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania has issued a preliminary injunction against Rosebud Mining Co. In a federal lawsuit filed on December 30, 2010, MSHA claimed that personnel at the company's Mine 78 in Somerset County, Pa., and Tracy Lynne Mine in Armstrong County, Pa., provided advance notice of federal inspectors' arrival, which violates Section 103(a) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977.

Del Monte Foods lauded for commitment to employee health and wellness

2011-01-10T14:26:24-06:00

In recognition of its commitment to employee health and wellness, Del Monte Foods has attained the prestigious Platinum Fit-Friendly status in the American Heart Association's Start! Fit-Friendly Companies program for the second consecutive year. The program recognizes companies that champion the health of their employees and work to create a culture of physical activity in the workplace.

Making sense of electrical measurement

2011-01-10T13:13:41-06:00

Clamp meters really are the way to go in a wide range of measurement scenarios, especially if you’re working with higher amperages – or if you need a comprehensive motor test in one device.

OSHA cites MillerCoors following investigation into ammonia release

2011-01-10T11:32:29-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited MillerCoors LLC of Golden, Colo., with 10 alleged serious violations of OSHA standards following the July 2010 release in excess of 2000 pounds of anhydrous ammonia at its Golden brewery. Proposed fines total $63,500.

Tips for workers in cold weather

2011-01-10T08:44:05-06:00

Labor Department, Massey Energy reach settlement agreement

2011-01-06T08:25:35-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration and Massey Energy reached a settlement agreement January 5 in a case involving Freedom Energy Mining Company's Mine No. 1 located in Pike County, Ky. Last November, MSHA filed in federal court a motion for preliminary injunction against the mine, the first such action ever taken by the agency. Section 108(a)(2) of the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 provides for injunctive relief against non-compliant mine operators who habitually violate health and safety standards. Shortly thereafter, Massey announced plans to idle the mine permanently.

OSHA lockout/tagout and electrical safety training video

2011-01-05T13:38:24-06:00

The OSHA lockout/tagout protocols in this video are covered in the Control of Hazardous Energy Standard found in 29 CFR 1910.147.

Toyota Industrial Equipment plant achieves safety milestone

2011-01-05T11:41:10-06:00

Toyota Material Handling USA Inc. (TMHU) on January 5 announced that the Quality Assurance department at Toyota Industrial Equipment Manufacturing Inc. (TIEM) in Columbus, Ind., the manufacturer of the No. 1-selling lift truck in the U.S., has achieved 200,000 consecutive hours worked without a recordable accident according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The 200,000 hours represents 1,000 work days.

Study looks at enhancing food safety culture to reduce foodborne illness

2011-01-05T08:42:40-06:00

If providing safe food is a priority, why do large outbreaks of foodborne illness keep happening? Incidents like 2010's salmonella-in-eggs outbreak sickened more than 1,900 across the U.S. and led to the recall of 500 million eggs.

NSC represented on National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety & Health

2011-01-03T07:10:31-06:00

The National Safety Council is proud to announce that James Johnson, group vice president of workplace safety initiatives, has been appointed by Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis to serve a two-year term on the National Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety & Health. Johnson is one of five new members to the 12-person advisory committee, chosen for his experience and knowledge in occupational safety and health.

OSHA proposes $238,000 in fines against USPS mail processing facility

2010-12-29T12:34:37-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited the U.S. Postal Service for willful and serious violations of safety standards following an inspection at the Central Massachusetts Processing and Distribution Center in Shrewsbury, Mass. The Postal Service faces a total of $238,000 in fines, chiefly for exposing workers to electrical hazards.

OSHA cites LM Wind Power Blades following worker fatality investigation

2010-12-29T08:17:21-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited LM Wind Power Blades Inc. of Grand Forks, N.D., with five safety violations for exposing workers to fall and crushing hazards that ultimately took one worker's life.

NHCA defends OSHA’s decision to change interpretation of noise control enforcement

2010-12-28T15:39:52-06:00

The National Hearing Conservation Association (NHCA) is reiterating its support for the change in workplace noise control enforcement announced on October 19, 2010 by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). A number of concerns about this announced change have been raised by employers and industry groups. Unfortunately, it appears that many of these concerns may be based on misunderstandings regarding the proposed change. NHCA seeks to underscore the importance of OSHA’s proposed interpretation for American workers, and to address a number of misperceptions related to this interpretation.

MSHA announces results of November impact inspections

2010-12-22T06:53:34-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration on December 21 announced that federal inspectors issued 250 citations, orders and safeguards during special impact inspections conducted at 12 coal and 10 metal/nonmetal mine operations last month.

Tips on how to stay safe and healthy while shoveling snow

2010-12-21T08:36:04-06:00

Snowstorms are a time of excitement and wonder for a child: snowball fights, sledding and closed schools. For adults, it’s the dreaded shoveling season complete with aching backs, frozen fingers or worse.

OSHA recognizes Raytheon for effective injury and illness prevention program

2010-12-17T13:58:23-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has recognized the management and employees of the Raytheon Company in Omaha, Neb., for achievement in the company's employee safety and health program.

Safety experts put spotlight on preventing job-related eye injuries

2010-12-16T13:41:42-06:00

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each day approximately 2,000 U.S. workers experience a job-related eye injury. One-third of these injuries are treated in hospital emergency rooms and more than 100 of these workplace eye injuries result in lost work time. The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) and The Vision Council have released information on the importance of enhancing eye safety and health in the workplace.

PG&E responds to NTSB report on San Bruno accident

2010-12-15T07:48:28-06:00

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) on December 14 responded to the release by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of its second interim report on the tragic San Bruno pipeline rupture on September 9, 2010. The report documents NTSB's progress on its meticulous investigation but draws no definitive conclusions as to the cause of the accident.

DOL obtains default judgment in Southern California garment manufacturer case

2010-12-14T15:04:10-06:00

A U.S. district court judge has ruled in favor of the U.S. Department of Labor in a case against a Westminster, Calif., garment manufacturer and its owner, awarding a total of $887,554 to current and former workers. Judge A. Howard Matz approved the department's request for a default judgment against Laundry Room Clothing Inc., owner Milton Kaneda and principal Sharon Kaneda after they failed to pay $380,824 in unpaid minimum wage and overtime compensation due to 115 low-wage workers. The default judgment also awards the workers $506,730 in liquidated damages.

OSHA fines Wisconsin company $787,000 following June explosion

2010-12-14T15:01:55-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration on December 14 cited the hazardous waste management processor, WRR Environmental Services Company, for failing to implement measures to prevent potentially catastrophic chemical fires and explosions at its facility in Eau Claire, Wis. OSHA has issued 14 willful and one serious citation to the company with proposed penalties of $787,000 for failing to fully develop and implement a process safety management program at the facility. This action stems from the agency's investigation of a June 29 explosion and fire at the facility.

Industrial Ceramic Products cited after worker suffers permanent arm injury in accident

2010-12-14T08:47:09-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Industrial Ceramic Products, also known as ICP, in Marysville, Ohio, with two willful, seven serious and four other-than-serious safety violations after a worker suffered a permanent arm injury while fixing a jammed machine. The manufacturer of industrial ceramic products is facing proposed penalties of $91,500.

OSHA fines Texas Linen Company $126,400 for fall hazards and repeat violations

2010-12-14T08:44:01-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Texas Linen Company Ltd. five serious and 15 repeat citations following a safety and health inspection at the company's facility in Austin, Texas. Proposed penalties total $126,400.

New ANSI testing standard raises the bar for slip and fall safety

2010-12-10T07:32:37-06:00

The National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) announced the publication of the new national safety standard for testing hard surface flooring, the ANSI/NFSI B101.1. This advancement in floor safety has been highly anticipated by the risk management and loss prevention industries.

OSHA cites Illinois plant after worker killed while operating a laser cutting machine

2010-12-10T06:54:31-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited GSI Group LLC, headquartered in Assumption, Ill., after a worker was killed at the company's Newton plant on June 7 while operating a laser cutting machine. The manufacturer of grain dryer equipment has been issued one willful and two serious safety violations for failing to have machine guarding in place.

Philadelphia paper manufacturer cited for 43 OSHA violations following worker fatality

2010-12-09T13:17:10-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Newman and Company for exposing workers to numerous workplace safety and health hazards after a worker was killed at the paper manufacturer’s Philadelphia plant.

OSHA cites New York stainless steel fabricator for hazardous conditions

2010-12-09T08:18:07-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Cannon Industries Inc. for alleged repeat and serious violations of workplace safety standards at its Rochester, N.Y., plant. The stainless steel fabricator faces a total of $71,000 in proposed fines for hazardous energy control, machine guarding and electrical hazards.

Vision and safety experts release report on workplace eye protection

2010-12-08T07:17:14-06:00

Each day, nearly 2,000 American workers suffer from avoidable workplace eye injuries that require medical treatment. Despite the risk of eye injury, many workers bypass appropriate precautions to protect their eyes. On December 8, The Vision Council, with the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE), announced the release of a new issue brief, Eye Safety At-a-Glance: Protecting Your Vision at Work, about the importance of protecting eyes while on the job.

OSHA fines U.S. Minerals facility in Illinois $396,000 for 28 violations

2010-12-07T15:38:44-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited U.S. Minerals LLC with willfully exposing its workers to dangerously high levels of hazardous dust, and not providing adequate breathing protection and training for workers at its facility in Coffeen, Ill. The company, headquartered in Dyer, Ind., has been issued a total of 28 health and safety citations with proposed penalties of $396,000.

OSHA bulletin and alert on diacetyl recommends safety measures to protect

2010-12-07T13:04:07-06:00

A new OSHA Safety and Health Information Bulletin and companion Worker Alert recommend that employers use safety measures to prevent exposing workers to the potentially fatal health effects of butter flavorings and other flavoring substances containing diacetyl or its substitutes.

Raytheon wins Worker Safety Excellence Award

2010-12-07T08:11:21-06:00

Raytheon recently received the Aerospace Industries Association’s (AIA) 2010 Worker Safety Excellence Award in the Aerospace Components category. Raytheon chairman and CEO William H. Swanson accepted the award November 18 at the AIA Board of Governors meeting in Phoenix. The award was presented by AIA president and CEO Marion Blakey. This is the seventh time in five years Raytheon has won a Safety Excellence Award from the association.

OSHA cites Ameriwood Industries for lack of protective gear and training

2010-12-07T08:07:46-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Ameriwood Industries Inc., a wood furniture manufacturer in Tiffin, Ohio, with two alleged serious and two alleged repeat safety violations for failing to train employees in safe work practices and require them to wear proper safety equipment when working on electrical panels. Proposed penalties total $60,000.

Steel manufacturer fined $156K for exposing workers to fall hazards, faulty equipment

2010-12-07T08:04:34-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Republic Engineered Products Inc., a steel manufacturing company, two willful and four serious citations for exposing its workers to fall hazards and failing to maintain equipment and walkways at its Canton, Ohio, facility. The company faces penalties totaling $156,000.

OSHA extends comment period on noise control interpretation

2010-12-06T15:46:03-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration on December 6 announced that it is extending by 90 days the official comment period on the proposed interpretation titled “Interpretation of OSHA’s Provisions for Feasible Administrative or Engineering Controls of Occupational Noise,” which was published in the Federal Register on October 19. Interested parties are encouraged to submit comments by March 21, 2011.

NRC inspectors watch maintenance, safety practices at Three Mile Island

2010-12-06T13:08:22-06:00

Resident inspectors with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission are stationed at Three Mile Island nuclear power plant to protect public safety and to be independent watchdogs over the plant's hundreds of employees and the actions they take every day. This incloudes all maintenance work (including machinery lubrication). There are inspectors stationed at all commercial nuclear facilities in the U.S. View the article at http://articles.lancasteronline.com/local/4/321494.

Simmons Manufacturing plant in Pennsylvania certified as OSHA Star site

2010-12-03T16:20:05-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has certified the Simmons Manufacturing Comapny in Hazelton, Pa., as a “Star” worksite, the highest honor in its Voluntary Protection Programs.

Huntsman Petrochemical cited for 12 serious safety violations

2010-12-02T08:04:38-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Huntsman Petrochemical LLC, headquartered in Houston, 12 serious citations for an inadequate process safety management program and deficient lockout/tagout procedures to prevent the accidental start-up of machinery. The violations were found at the company's facility on Jefferson Chemical Road in Conroe, Texas. Proposed penalties total $75,600.

Nebraska biofuels facility cited for exposing workers to serious electrical hazards

2010-12-01T12:15:28-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued biofuel company Next Step Burwell LLC of Burwell, Neb., five serious citations and one willful citation for exposing employees to electrical hazards and failing to adequately train workers.

Voluntary standard covers chemical protective clothing

2010-11-30T13:17:31-06:00

Hazardous chemicals are used in many industries, from agriculture to manufacturing to pharmaceuticals. Whether solid, liquid or gas, they pose some of the most serious health hazards facing workers today. The International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA), a ANSI member and accredited standards developer, recently released an American National Standard (ANS) that addresses protective apparel for workers who come into contact with these chemicals.

New EPA tool to promote safer chemicals and products

2010-11-30T13:15:49-06:00

As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson’s commitment to strengthen and reform chemical management, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on November 30 announced new criteria to help companies and other groups, such as states and environmental organizations, identify safer chemicals. As part of the agency’s Design for the Environment (DfE) program, EPA unveiled the new criteria which are an important tool under its DfE Alternatives Assessments for identifying safer alternatives to chemicals that pose a concern to human health and the environment.

Resources to protect workers from the cold

2010-11-29T16:37:59-06:00

The holidays are just around the corner, and for most of the country, so is cold weather. Many workers have jobs that require being out of doors or in the cold, putting them at increased risk from the dangers of cold weather and cold stress. For workers who must spend part of the work day out-of-doors, cold weather can be a real hazard - in fact, it may be deadly. So now is the time to begin to plan how to help your employees to cope.

OSHA fines Cooper Tire & Rubber $206,000 for willful, serious and repeat violations

2010-11-29T16:04:47-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Cooper Tire & Rubber Company, a manufacturer of automotive and truck tires, with nine alleged safety and health violations for failing to provide proper hazardous chemical protection to its workers, unnecessarily exposing them to fire and explosion hazards, and failing to provide fall protection from distances of more than 9 feet. Proposed penalties total $206,500.

Controller, recorder selection tips for food and beverage applications

2010-11-29T14:40:05-06:00

With food and beverage companies producing and dispatching thousands of products each day, the need to pick the best technology to help ensure high levels of product quality and safety is of paramount importance. This article provides advice about key factors in control and recording equipment selection for F&B processes.

ARC: Machine safeguarding trounced in response to global recession

2010-11-29T11:27:47-06:00

The turbulence in the global market effectively put the brakes on the machine safeguarding market around the third quarter in 2008. Effectively, the automotive market and general machinery market came to a halt leaving those suppliers with a dependency on these sectors to accept the inevitable, or more specifically, scale business to the opportunity. Thus, 2009 started with the deepest global downturn in recent history. Fortunately, in the second half of 2009, the economic downturn ended and a modest recovery began in both developing and advanced economies as global production and trade started to rebound. In advanced economies, the beginning of a turn in the inventory cycle and unexpected strength in U.S. consumption contributed to positive developments. The worldwide market for Machine Safeguarding Solutions will decline in 2009, but a strong rebound has begun in the second half of 2010 according to a new ARC Advisory Group study.

Foam manufacturer in Denver receives 24 OSHA citations

2010-11-24T14:17:37-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Styro-Tech LLC in Denver 20 serious and four other-than-serious citations with $66,400 in proposed penalties for lacking a comprehensive safety program covering the use of flammable material. OSHA's inspection of the foam manufacturing facility was initiated under a site-specific targeting program focusing on employers with high injury and illness rates.

Weatherford International cited for allegedly exposing workers to hexavalent chromium

2010-11-24T14:14:06-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Weatherford International Ltd. with one alleged willful, 30 alleged serious and two alleged repeat violations following a safety and health inspection at the company's facility in Longview, Texas. Proposed penalties total $261,500.

6 guidelines to prevent workplace slips, trips and falls

2010-11-23T10:14:06-06:00

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, slips, trips and falls make up the majority of general industry accidents, which account for: 15 percent of all accidental deaths per year; about 25 percent of all reported injury claims per fiscal year; and more than 95 million lost work days per year – about 65 percent of all work days lost. This article offers six guidelines to help you create a safer working environment for you and your employees.

CPR is no longer as easy as A-B-C

2010-11-22T09:04:57-06:00

You may have heard that the American Heart Association (AHA) has changed its recommendations for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in its 2010 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care.

OSHA certifies Chevron Energy Solutions utility plant as Star site

2010-11-19T09:38:00-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has certified Chevron Energy Solutions Fort Detrick Central Utility Plant in Fort Detrick, Md., as a "Star" site, the highest honor in its Voluntary Protection Programs.

Georgia plating company fined $300,000 for exposing workers to hazardous chemicals

2010-11-19T09:35:32-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration is proposing $300,400 in penalties against Aerospace/Defense Coatings of Georgia Inc. in Macon, Ga., for 19 health violations.

Chart: Non-fatal occupational injuries and illnesses requiring days away from work

2010-11-19T09:28:23-06:00

In private industry, the number of injuries and illness cases involving days away from work decreased 11 percent to 964,990 cases—a decline from 1,078,140 in 2008. This is the first time the number of cases has been below 1 million since data have been collected.

OSHA cites Cleveland manufacturer for 15 alleged safety violations

2010-11-17T08:37:24-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Precision Production Inc., a manufacturer of fabricated components in Cleveland, with 15 alleged safety violations. The company faces penalties totaling $149,250.

Kentucky recognizes Bowling Green manufacturer for safety and health programs

2010-11-12T13:50:07-06:00

The Kentucky Labor Cabinet on November 10 presented Sun Products Corporation of Bowling Green, Ky., with two awards for taking extraordinary measures to ensure the safety and health of its employees. Sun Products is a leading manufacturer and marketer of fabric care and dish care products.

OSHA examines ways to improve worker protection from slip, trip and fall hazards

2010-11-12T09:09:48-06:00

OSHA will hold an informal public hearing starting January 18, 2011, on the proposed rule revising the Walking-Working Surfaces and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards to improve worker protection from slip, trip and fall hazards.

The dangers of uncontrolled chemical reactions

2010-11-11T08:52:52-06:00

This video from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board explores the dangers of uncontrolled chemical reactions.

U.S. Minerals facility cited with 30 safety violations, more than $110,000 in penalties

2010-11-11T08:06:13-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Dyer, Ind.-based U.S. Minerals LLC with 30 safety violations for exposing workers to multiple safety and health hazards at the company's facility in Harvey. Proposed penalties total $110,400.

Judge upholds OSHA citations issued against Thomas Industrial Coatings

2010-11-11T08:03:12-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration on November 9 announced that the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission recently ruled in favor of upholding citations issued to Thomas Industrial Coatings Inc. of Pevely, Mo., following an investigation into two separate worker deaths at the same worksite.

OSHA fines Interstate Brands $274,500 for failing to train and protect workers

2010-11-10T13:16:18-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Schiller Park, Ill.-based Interstate Brands Corporation, a manufacturer of bakery products, with 20 alleged safety violations for failing to properly train workers who operate powered industrial trucks, and protect workers from electrical shock hazards and dangerous high-speed rotating equipment. Proposed penalties, from two OSHA inspections at the company's plant, total $274,500.

Fortune Plastic and Metal Texas cited for allegedly exposing workers to lead poisoning

2010-11-10T13:14:28-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Fortune Plastic and Metal Texas LLC with six alleged serious and six alleged repeat violations following a safety and health inspection at the company's worksite in Dallas. Proposed penalties total $125,000.

Early employer-based flu vaccinations can protect health, improve bottom line

2010-11-10T13:12:52-06:00

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh, who presented the findings at the American Public Health Association’s 138th Annual Meeting & Exposition in Denver, developed an economic model to suggest that not only should employers get their employees vaccinated, they should do so as early as possible.

Rockwell safety team helps customers sleep at night

2010-11-10T12:02:25-06:00

Specialists from the Safety Solutions business at Rockwell Automation share best practices for improving worker safety while maintaining or increasing productivity.

How to keep moisture and water from automation cabinets

2010-11-10T12:01:01-06:00

David Connaughton from Parker Balston discusses how to safely and efficiently keep moisture and water from automation cabinets.

How to safely and efficiently troubleshoot drive applications

2010-11-10T11:59:26-06:00

Reed Buell from Fluke Corporation discusses how to safely and efficiently perform troubleshooting for typical drive applications.

Study shows no increased cancer risk for semiconductor industry workers

2010-11-10T08:52:58-06:00

An exhaustive, five-year epidemiological study conducted by researchers from Vanderbilt University covering more than 100,000 semiconductor industry workers found no association between overall cancer mortality and working in wafer fabrication cleanrooms, the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) reported on November 10. The $7.5 million study was conducted by a team of researchers from the Vanderbilt University Department of Medicine and Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center and supported by a research grant from SIA.

Republic Engineered Products fined $143,000 for exposure workers to hazards

2010-11-08T13:39:55-06:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Republic Engineered Products Inc., a steel manufacturing company in Lorain, Ohio, with one alleged willful, four repeat and eight serious safety violations for exposing its workers to fall hazards, failing to provide protective equipment and failing to maintain equipment at its Lorain facility. The company faces penalties totaling $143,000.

Amtec Corp. cited for safety violations after explosion kills 2 workers

2010-11-05T13:24:56-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Amtec Corporation, a contractor at the U.S. Army's Space & Missile Defense Command, Redstone Arsenal, in Huntsville, Ala., for safety violations following an explosion that killed two workers.

Chemical Safety Board seeks to ban natural gas blows

2010-11-04T14:27:30-05:00

U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) chairman Rafael Moure-Eraso calls for a ban on the cleaning out of debris from gas piping using pressurized natural gas, a practice that is referred to in the industry as a gas blow.

Workglove guidance: Cool hands are safer hands

2010-11-04T11:18:09-05:00

Measuring the moisture management properties of workgloves is quite a challenge. When hands become hot and sweaty, workers’ first reaction is to remove their gloves, which may expose those hands to hazards such as electrical current. Read this article for background on workglove composition and find solutions to keep worker hands cool and safe.

MSHA asks for preliminary injunction against Freedom Energy Mining Company

2010-11-04T08:14:26-05:00

In an unprecedented legal move, the U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration November 3 filed with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky a motion for preliminary injunction against Freedom Energy Mining Company's Mine No. 1. Located in Pike County, Ky., Freedom's Mine No. 1 is owned by Massey Energy Company.

Glove selection tips for the food industry

2010-11-03T16:02:46-05:00

Workers in any food processing environment face a number of hazards, including sharp-edged tools, materials and surfaces, temperature extremes, the food products themselves, grease, bacteria and the harsh solutions and chemicals used to clean and sanitize processing areas. Selecting the right hand protection products for these various hazards can help protect workers while potentially reducing insurance and indemnity costs.

Best practices for creating a safety culture take center stage at forum

2010-11-03T09:11:01-05:00

Automation professionals – including manufacturing innovators, decision-makers, designers and engineers – on November 2 learned how to better protect personnel, equipment and the environment using advanced machine safety technologies and best practices at the Safety Automation Forum in Orlando, Fla.

Are you up to speed on OSHA’s protection regulations?

2010-11-02T10:11:14-05:00

How familiar are you with OSHA’s employee protection regulations? Take the 12-question quiz in this article and find out.

OSHA's top 10 list of most frequently cited standards

2010-11-01T09:26:08-05:00

Recently, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration released its Top 10 List of most frequently cited OSHA standards. The list covered fiscal year 2010 (October 2009 through September 2010).

CBM and RCM help to maximize safety, uptime at YICT

2010-11-01T08:34:15-05:00

Being one of the biggest single container terminals in the world brings certain expectations from the operators and customers alike. Professionalism, reliability and efficiency are three of the most important and, coupled with a high regard for safety, are major focus areas for the Yantian International Container Terminal (YICT), in Shenzhen, southern China.

Fisher-Barton plant celebrates 1 million hours of no lost time

2010-10-28T15:27:06-05:00

Fisher-Barton South Carolina recently celebrated one million hours worked without a lost-time accident. Fisher-Barton’s current string of safety began in December 2005.

Chart: Private industry workplace injuries and illnesses decline

2010-10-28T15:12:54-05:00

Non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses among private industry employers declined in 2009 to a rate of 3.6 cases per 100 equivalent full-time workers — down from 3.9 cases in 2008. The total recordable case injury and illness incidence rate among private industry employers has declined significantly each year since 2003, when these estimates were first published.

OSHA cites Illinois company for failing to lock out machine energy sources

2010-10-28T07:17:41-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited C & F Packing Company Inc. of Lake Villa, Ill., with two alleged willful and 12 serious violations for failing to ensure lockout procedures and guarding devices were applied to machinery. Proposed fines total $140,700.

FDA awards $18.5 million in grants for food and feed safety

2010-10-27T14:36:01-05:00

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration awarded 84 grants worth $18.5 million in fiscal year 2010 to help state and local regulatory agencies defend against and respond quickly to threats to the food supply and to outbreaks of foodborne diseases.

Contain arc flash with GE protection system

2010-10-27T09:49:31-05:00

This video outlines GE's innovative Arc Vault Protection System. This product can contain an arc flash in less than 8 milliseconds.

OSHA recognizes Texas power plant for safety and health excellence

2010-10-27T06:27:28-05:00

Power Resources Ltd. in Big Spring, Texas, has earned membership in the Voluntary Protection Programs of the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration at the Star, or highest, level for achieving three years of excellence in employee health and safety.

Siemens recalls circuit breakers due to fire hazard

2010-10-26T13:46:19-05:00

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Name of Product: Siemens and Murray Circuit Breakers, Load Centers and Meter Combos

Ryobi recalls cordless drills due to fire hazard

2010-10-26T13:43:10-05:00

PPE assessment can positively impact bottom line

2010-10-26T13:16:35-05:00

The economic downturn has incited many companies to take a closer look at how they can reduce their day-to-day operating costs. In many instances, a personal protective equipment (PPE) assessment can help maximize a company’s strengths and identify opportunities for improvements that can positively impact the bottom line.

Gun powder manufacturer fined $1.2M, issues 54 citations after deadly explosion

2010-10-25T11:31:09-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued 54 workplace safety and health citations with penalties totaling $1.2 million to gun powder substitute manufacturer Black Mag LLC, following an investigation into the causes of a deadly explosion in May at the company’s worksite in Colebrook, N.H. The explosion took the lives of two workers who had been on the job for only a month.

Roanoke Cement site marks anniversary

2010-10-25T11:25:34-05:00

Roanoke Cement Company's Front Royal (Va.) terminal celebrated its 10-year anniversary on October 20 with a luncheon focusing on safety.

OSHA requirements for welding, oxyacetylene cutting

2010-10-25T09:14:34-05:00

Many workplaces perform some welding or oxyacetylene cutting in their facilities, even if it is not production work. And to do some types of welding or oxy-acetylene cutting you must have cylinders of compressed gases – oxygen or fuel gases – in your facility. Do you ever stop to think who is responsible for these cylinders?

OSHA targets high-hazard worksites for inspection

2010-10-22T14:52:35-05:00

OSHA issued its annual inspection plan under the Site-Specific Targeting 2010 (SST-10) program in August to help the agency direct enforcement resources to high-hazard workplaces where the highest rates of injuries and illnesses occur.

Tips to help you, co-workers avoid frostbite and cold weather injury this winter

2010-10-22T13:29:32-05:00

With cold weather on the horizon, podiatrists at Temple University’s School of Podiatric Medicine warn that people of all ages need to take precautions to protect their feet from cold-related injuries like frostbite, ankle sprains and fractures.

AP Specialty Metals plant cited following workplace fatality

2010-10-22T13:23:25-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited AP Specialty Metals in Alpharetta, Ga., for 13 safety violations. OSHA began its investigation following the death of an employee in April who was trapped and crushed in a large machine that polishes heavy-gauge steel.

OSHA cites Houston manufacturing company for alleged safety violations

2010-10-22T13:21:33-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Houston-based Igloo Products Corporation with 14 alleged serious, two alleged repeat and four alleged other-than-serious violations for exposing workers to multiple safety hazards. Proposed penalties total $113,500.

New safety data shows non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses declined in 2009

2010-10-22T07:28:28-05:00

Non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses among private industry employers declined in 2009 to a rate of 3.6 cases per 100 equivalent full-time workers – down from 3.9 cases in 2008, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics reported on October 21. Similarly, the number of non-fatal occupational injuries and illnesses reported in 2009 declined to 3.3 million cases, compared to 3.7 million cases in 2008. The total recordable case (TRC) injury and illness incidence rate among private industry employers has declined significantly each year since 2003, when estimates from the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII) were first published using the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS).

Arc flash accident at a meat packing plant

2010-10-22T07:15:41-05:00

This video is from a 2003 incident at a meat packing plant. Everyday in the United States, there are approximately 10 arc flash incidents and approximately two fatalities from these events.

Kansas City employers cited after worker falls to death through roof opening

2010-10-20T06:11:56-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Kirberg Roofing Inc. of Kansas City, Kan., and Davila Sheet Metal Co. Inc., of Raytown, Mo., following an investigation of a Kirberg construction worker who fell about 40 feet to his death through a roof opening.

OSHA seeks comments on official interpretation of workplace noise exposure controls

2010-10-20T06:09:38-05:00

OSHA is proposing to issue an interpretation of the term "feasible administrative or engineering controls" as used in the general industry and construction occupational noise exposure standards and to amend its current enforcement policy to reflect the interpretation. For the purpose of enforcing compliance with these standards, the proposal states that "feasible" has its ordinary meaning of capable of being done.

Wood product firms cited for exposing workers to combustible dust, safety hazards

2010-10-18T06:31:47-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited two separate wood product companies in Superior, Colo., for exposing workers to a variety of safety and health hazards. Eureka Pellet Mill's proposed fines total $58,500, and Mountain West Products LLC's proposed fines total $42,500.

OSHA cites Colorado company after worker dies in confined space accident

2010-10-18T06:29:43-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Tactical Cleaning Company in Commerce City, Colo., for 12 alleged serious violations at its tank cleaning facility for exposing a worker to a flash fire while working in a confined space with flammable materials. The worker sustained significant burns and died later from his injuries.

Candy maker finds way to increase safety, save money

2010-10-14T16:29:00-05:00

A comprehensive wiring devices audit contributed to increased efficiency, reduced downtime, code compliance and workplace safety recommendations for Georgia-based Crown Candy Corporation.

OSHA honors Dal-Tile for workplace safety and health success

2010-10-14T13:02:00-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has certified Dal-Tile Corporation in Gettysburg, Pa., as a Star site, the highest honor in its Voluntary Protection Programs.

Cold & flu season alert: Manufacturers worried about workplace absenteeism

2010-10-14T10:25:16-05:00

On the heels of last year’s H1N1 scare, manufacturers are taking a closer look at how to avoid wide-spread workplace absenteeism and productivity declines if faced with another flu pandemic. According to a recent survey conducted by Kimberly-Clark Professional, 87 percent of manufacturing industry professionals polled said they are concerned about declines in productivity at their workplace due to absenteeism or presenteeism related to a flu pandemic.

Grainger announces acquisition of SafetyCertified

2010-10-14T08:13:04-05:00

W.W. Grainger, North America's leading broad line distributor of facilities maintenance products, on October 14 announced it has acquired substantially all of the assets of SafetyCertified Inc. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

South Carolina industrial employment declined 3.2% over past year

2010-10-12T12:44:10-05:00

Industrial employment in South Carolina fell 3.2 percent over the past 12 months according to the 2011 South Carolina Manufacturers Register, an industrial directory published annually by Manufacturers' News Inc. MNI reports South Carolina lost 8,747 manufacturing jobs over the past year, a significantly smaller decline than the 24,393 jobs MNI reported lost over the 2008-2009 survey period.

Two Alcoa Employees Recognized as 'rising stars' by National Safety Council

2010-10-12T12:41:19-05:00

Alcoa announced October 12 that two of its safety specialists have been named “Rising Stars of Safety” by the National Safety Council (NSC), a new program started by the organization that recognizes the safety leadership of young safety professionals. Rebecca Cranford, environment, health & safety manager at Alcoa’s Cleveland (Ohio) Works, and Ken Grace, environment, health & safety director for Alcoa Building and Construction Systems, headquartered in Norcross, Ga., were named to the NSC’s first-ever 40 under 40 ranking of individuals who have distinguished themselves by improving workplace safety.

Momentive Performance Materials earns OSHA VPP Star status

2010-10-12T12:38:04-05:00

Momentive Performance Materials, a global leader in specialty chemicals and materials, announced October 12 that its manufacturing facility in Friendly, W.Va., has been nationally recognized for excellence in occupational safety and health as a Star site through the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

U.S. Gypsum recognized for safety and health excellence

2010-10-12T12:11:50-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has certified U.S. Gypsum Company in Weirton, W.Va., as a “Star” site, the highest honor in its Voluntary Protection Programs.

N.J. metal firm faces $188,500 OSHA fine for exposing workers to lead, other hazards

2010-10-12T11:46:23-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued citations to Simsmetal East LLC, doing business as Sims Metal Management, for exposing workers to lead hazards at its Claremont Terminal site in Jersey City, N.J. Proposed penalties total $188,500.

NSC names eight recipients of Safety Leadership Awards

2010-10-11T14:10:21-05:00

The National Safety Council awarded eight organizations with Safety Leadership Awards in September. Safety Leadership recipients have achieved five consecutive years without an occupational injury or illness resulting in lost employee work days or death.

Furniture manufacturer cited for failing to correct previous safety hazard

2010-10-11T09:07:47-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration is proposing $90,000 in fines against Baby's Dream Furniture of Buena Vista, Ga., for allegedly failing to correct a serious workplace violation. The company manufactures wood household furniture.

OSHA seeks $137,000 in fines vs. Connecticut packaging manufacturer

2010-10-11T09:05:29-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Amgraph Packaging Inc., which manufactures and distributes packaging for food and tobacco products, for 60 serious and other-than-serious violations of workplace safety and health standards at its plant in Versailles, Conn. The company faces a total of $137,250 in proposed fines.

Briggs & Stratton plant faces OSHA penalty following worker injury

2010-10-08T12:20:01-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration is proposing $78,000 in penalties against Briggs & Stratton Corporation in McDonough, Ga., for nine safety and health violations following a worker being injured.

USG Corporation Weirton plant awarded OSHA VPP Star

2010-10-07T14:30:50-05:00

USG Corporation announced that its plant in Weirton, W.Va., earned the prestigious Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Star award for outstanding safety performance and processes. Officials from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration presented the award and a commemorative flag during a ceremony at the plant on October 7.

MSHA issues 11 closure orders during surprise inspection at W.Va. coal mine

2010-10-07T13:52:34-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Mine Safety and Health Administration on October 7 announced the issuance of 11 closure orders to Elk Run Coal Company's Seng Creek Powellton Mine when federal inspectors last week discovered that the mine was taking illegal cuts into the coal seam, operating without proper ventilation and not completing required air readings, which are needed to assure there is sufficient air flow to prevent mine explosions. The mine is owned by Massey Energy Company and located in Boone County, W.Va.

OSHA cites Niagara Falls, N.Y., paper mill after worker's death

2010-10-07T13:43:52-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Norampac Industries Inc. repeat and serious safety violations following the May 12 death of a worker at its Niagara Falls, N.Y., paper mill. The worker was crushed when he became caught between a fixed metal barrier and a large paper roll that was moving on a conveyor.

Dow Corning named to “America’s Safest Companies” list for 2010

2010-10-07T09:03:24-05:00

Dow Corning, a world leader in silicones, silicon-based technology and innovation, has been named one of America’s Safest Companies by EHS Today. Twelve companies were selected for the 2010 honor.

AK Steel responds to OSHA citations

2010-10-06T10:02:46-05:00

AK Steel on October 5 responded to allegations by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) of a small number of recordkeeping violations at the company's Middletown (Ohio) Works. The alleged violations followed a seven-month inspection by OSHA that took place at the plant from January 12, 2010 to August 11, 2010 under OSHA's Local Emphasis Program for primary metal producers.

Schneider Electric named as winner of NSC Green Cross for Safety Medal

2010-10-06T09:32:50-05:00

The National Safety Council announced October 4 that it will present the 2011 Green Cross for Safety Medal to Schneider Electric North America. The Green Cross for Safety Medal is presented annually by NSC to an organization that has distinguished itself over a period of years for outstanding achievements in workplace and off-the-job safety and health, community service, environmental stewardship, and responsible citizenship. The medal will be presented to Schneider Electric North America CEO Chris Curtis at a dinner in spring 2011.

National Safety Council bestows Campbell Award on Dow Chemical Company

2010-10-06T09:28:52-05:00

The National Safety Council on October 4 presented The Dow Chemical Company with its 2010 Robert W. Campbell Award at the opening session of the NSC 2010 Congress & Expo, the world’s largest annual safety and health conference.

Milliken named one of America's Safest Companies

2010-10-06T09:06:32-05:00

Milliken & Company has been recognized for a second time as one America's Safest Companies by EHS Today magazine. Milliken was first recognized in 2004 and with today's recognition is the first company in America to be a repeat winner of this distinction. Winners of the award cannot be recognized again for five years. Only twelve companies are being recognized in 2010.

New York manufacturer faces OSHA penalty for 34 alleged safety violations

2010-10-06T08:43:06-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited The Fountainhead Group Inc. of New York Mills, N.Y., for 34 serious violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. The company, which manufactures agricultural hand sprayers for consumers, faces a total of $83,650 in proposed fines following a comprehensive safety inspection conducted under OSHA's Site-Specific Targeting Program.

AK Steel plant fined for failing to record worker injuries, hearing loss

2010-10-06T08:38:41-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued AK Steel Corporation five willful and three other-than-serious citations for failing to record occupational injuries at its Middletown, Ohio, facility. The company, which produces flat-rolled and tubular steel products, is facing proposed penalties of $53,000.

Equistar Chemicals plant fined for safety violations following fire

2010-10-06T08:31:31-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Equistar Chemicals LP in Tuscola, Ill., one willful and three serious safety citations following an explosion and fire at the plant on March 22. The willful citation is for failing to ensure a safe haven for workers in the company's alcohol unit in the event of a fire or explosion. Proposed penalties total $81,900.

Pfizer Global Manufacturing earns OSHA praise for safety and health efforts

2010-10-01T11:29:45-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has recognized the management and employees of Pfizer Global Manufacturing in Lincoln, Neb., for achievement in the company's employee safety and health program.

Consolidated Blenders cited for exposing workers to inadvertent machinery start-ups, other hazards

2010-10-01T11:25:48-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Consolidated Blenders Inc., doing business as Shoftstall Alfalfa, in Odessa, Neb., with one alleged willful and 24 alleged serious violations for exposing workers to inadvertent machinery start-ups and other safety hazards. Proposed penalties total $120,600.

J.R. Simplot cited for safety and health violations at North Dakota site

2010-10-01T11:23:21-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued J.R. Simplot Company of Boise, Idaho, one repeat and 12 serious workplace health and safety citations at its facility in Grand Forks, N.D. Proposed penalties total $59,000.

OSHA fines Heartland Refinery for exposing workers to fire hazards

2010-10-01T11:14:31-05:00

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Heartland Refinery in Columbus, Ohio, with one alleged serious safety violation for failing to control the release of flammable liquids and vapors resulting in a July 17, 2010, fire at the facility. The refinery also has been cited with two repeat violations for problems that existed in March 2010 and were found in July 2010 not to have been corrected, as well as one failure-to-abate violation first brought to the company's attention by OSHA in 2009. Proposed penalties total $68,900.