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U.S. Department of Labor | |
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OSHA News Release
2004 - 11/29/2004 - OSHA Cites Selma Smelting Plant for Safety Hazards Following Investigation of Fatal Accident |
OSHA News Release - Table of Contents |
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Region 4 News Release Release Number: 04-2331-ATL (275) Date: Monday, November 29, 2004 Contact: Clyde Payne Jo Anne Burgoyne Phone: (251) 441-6131 (404) 562-2076 OSHA Cites Selma Smelting Plant for Safety Hazards
Following Investigation of Fatal Accident More than $40,000 in Penalties Proposed MOBILE, Ala. -- The U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Globe Metallurgical Inc., and proposed $40,500 in total penalties, following the investigation of a fatal accident at the company's Selma, Ala., plant. On May 28, a company employee reportedly was exposed to temperatures above 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit when an electric arc furnace erupted. The worker died June 6, from severe burns. "This tragedy could have been prevented if the company had followed recognized industry safety practices," said Ken Atha, OSHA's Mobile area director. The company received two serious citations directly related to the accident for failing to require furnace operators to wear aluminized jackets and failing to automatically charge furnaces. The proposed penalties for these two alleged violations total $10,000. OSHA also issued 11 additional serious citations, which included lack of required written safety plans, fall hazards, unsafe electrical equipment and modifications to motorized equipment not authorized by the manufacturer. Proposed penalties total $30,500. OSHA issues a serious citation 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. The company has 15 days to contest the OSHA citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The worksite was inspected by OSHA's Mobile area office; 1141 Montlimar Drive, Suite 1006; phone (251) 441-6131. Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's workers by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov. ###
The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc). Call (202) 693-7765 or TTY (202) 693-7755. DOL is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance. |
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OSHA News Release - Table of Contents |
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