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OSHA News Release
2005 - 01/05/2005 - OSHA Cites Lodi, NJ Company for Workplace Hazards

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Region 2 News Release:    04-2478-NEW (osha 04-192)
Date: Jan. 4, 2005
Contact: Leni Uddyback-Fortson
Phone: (215) 861-5102


OSHA Cites Lodi, NJ Company for Workplace Hazards
Proposes $135,000 in Fines

HASBROUK HEIGHTS, N.J. -- The U.S. Department of Labors' Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Atlantic Detroit Diesel Allison LLC for alleged safety and health violations at its Lodi, NJ site. The company services and repairs bus engines and transmissions, employing 380 workers in Lodi and Piscataway, NJ.

"Strong enforcement is a key part of this Administration's efforts to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "The significant penalty of $135,000 in this case demonstrates our commitment to protecting the health and safety of America's workers."

OSHA initiated an investigation on June 22 after receiving a complaint alleging that employees were exposed to diesel fumes, and that medical emergencies were not handled properly. Citations were issued to the company for two alleged willful violations, with a penalty of $55,000 and 33 alleged serious violations, with a penalty of $80,000.

The willful citations were due to the company's failure to regularly inspect hooks and hoist chains. The serious citations include the company's failure to utilize lockout/tagout procedures that prevent inadvertent machine start-ups, failure to properly maintain and use fire extinguishers, failure to properly maintain and service machinery, deficient hazardous chemical procedures, and inadequate medical surveillance for employees exposed to hazardous chemicals.

Willful violations are those committed with an intentional disregard or plain indifference to the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. A serious citation is issued when death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.

The company has 15 working days to contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The investigation was conducted by OSHA's Hasbrouck Heights area office, 500 Route 17 South -2nd Floor, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ. 07604. Telephone: (201) 288-1700.

The U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration conducted more than 39,000 inspections in fiscal year 2004. Twenty percent were in response to workers' complaints.

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.


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U.S. Labor Department (DOL) releases are accessible on the Internet at 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) 693-7765 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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