Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Lawyers Blog
Workers seen using inadequately guarded saws and grinders at ProMaxima Manufacturing Ltd in Houston, TX prompted an inspection by OSHA’s Houston South Area Office. That inspection resulted in proposed penalties against the company, totaling $47,700.
According to a press release on OSHA.org, ProMaxima manufactures fitness equipment for various federal agencies. It employes about 200 workers.
Nine serious violations were found, including failing to properly guard machinery such as saws and grinders, failing to properly store gas cylinders, failing to keep electrical equipment free and clear of obstacles, and failing to train and certify forklift operators. Serious violations occur when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.
Mark Briggs, director of OHSA’s Houston South office, said, “The employer exposed workers to amputations as well as fire and electrical hazards. It is the responsibililty of the employer to provide a safe and healthful environment for workers.”
As OSHA’s director stated, it is an employer’s duty to provide a safe working environment for their employees. It’s just as important for employees to report any safety violations that they see, to protect themselves and their fellow coworkers. Corners may be cut due to save time and money, but employees put their own personal safety on the line, and that’s not fair. If you’ve been injured on the job, you may have a case, contact the workers’ comp attorneys at O’Connor Law for a free review of your case.