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OSHA News Release
2003 - 12/01/2003 - OSHA Finds Failure to Provide Safety Devices, Training |
OSHA News Release - Table of Contents |
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Region 5 News Release 03-682-CHI Dec. 1, 2003 Contact: Brad Mitchell Phone: 312-353-6976 OSHA Finds Failure to Provide Safety Devices, Training
Leads to $150,000 Fine for Sparta, Wis., Employer MADISON, Wis. -- A Sparta, Wis., company is facing $150,000 in fines proposed by the U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) following a May 2003 accident in which an employee suffered several fractures to his pelvis, right leg and both hips while performing preventative maintenance on a conveyor system at the facility. An OSHA investigation into the accident revealed that the Sparta Hardwoods Division of Midwest Hardwoods Corporation failed to develop machine-specific procedures to control hazardous energy sources and to train employees in energy lockout procedures. OSHA also charged the Sparta hardwood mill with failing to provide locks or other hardware to isolate energy during machinery servicing. "This company failed to protect its workers," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "This Administration is committed to protecting workers from such accidents, and this significant fine of $150,000 demonstrates that we will vigorously enforce safety standards." The Sparta Hardwoods mill employs about 24 workers in Sparta and is a division of Maple Grove, Minn., based Midwest Hardwood Corp. The Sparta mill had not previously been inspected by OSHA. OSHA Area Director Kimberly Stille, Madison, Wis., said that the company has 15 working days from receipt of the citations to appeal before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. OSHA is dedicated to saving lives, preventing injuries and illnesses and protecting America's workers. Safety and health add value to business, the workplace and life. For more information, visit www.osha.gov ### U.S. Labor Department releases are accessible on the Internet at http://www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request. Call (202) 693-7773 or TTY (202)693-7755. |
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OSHA News Release - Table of Contents |
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