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U.S. Department of Labor | |
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OSHA News Release
2003 - 03/10/2003 - Failure to Protect Workers From Safety Hazards May Cost Waupun, Wis. Firm $154,350 |
OSHA News Release - Table of Contents |
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Region 5 News Release V-149 March 10, 2003 Contact: Brad Mitchell Phone: (312) 353-6976 Failure to Protect Workers From Safety Hazards May Cost Waupun, Wis. Firm $154,350
U.S. Labor Secretary Says Hazards of Improperly Protected Machines Are Well Known, No Excuse for Exposure MADISON -- The failure to address the hazards of unguarded machinery in a timely manner and inadequate protection of employees exposed to the potential of unexpected energization of equipment at the Waupun, Wis. plant of Silgan Containers Corporation has resulted in a $154,350 fine assessed by the U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the agency announced today. "The dangers of unguarded machinery and the hazards of servicing machinery that accidentally can be activated are well known," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "Far too often the result is an amputation or loss of life. We cannot allow such a careless attitude toward worker safety." OSHA opened an investigation into workplace safety and health conditions at the plant in September, 2002, as a targeted inspection based on the company's lost-workday injury and illness rate of 14.7. OSHA inspectors found serious violations of federal regulations including machine guarding, electrical deficiencies, and an improperly guarded work platform. The agency also issued citations characterized as willful that allege the employer failed to have workers lockout equipment in an appropriate manner prior to servicing and maintenance, and for unguarded point-of-operations on mechanical power presses. The Waupun plant employs over 90 workers in the manufacture of tin cans for the food processing industry. There are 5,000 employees company-wide at some 40 plants throughout the U.S. The company has 15 working days from receipt of the citations and proposed penalties to appeal before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration 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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