An Ohio company with a safety record already considered substandard by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) was tagged by the agency earlier this month with scores of violations that OSHA viewed upped the risk of construction accidents and other injuries for onsite workers.
Hobart Brothers Co., a Troy-based manufacturing company that makes welding wire and power equipment for use in the airplane industry, was visited by OSHA investigators after compiling a problematic illness and injury record over multiple years.
Injury-rate statistics compiled by OSHA led the agency to carry out an inspection at the company’s plant under a program called “Site-Specific Targeting.” That initiative focuses on businesses with adverse safety rates that exceed national standards.
Investigators pointed to 55 violations across a multitude of areas and concerns. The agency noted conditions that increased the potential for worker falls, citing a complete absence of fall protection in several instances. Electrical injuries were deemed a concern, with Hobart failing to provide its employees performing electrical work with proper protective equipment. Additionally, federal investigators noted inadequate railings, uncovered floor holes, locked exit doors and combustible rags left out in the open.
Workers were also noted as having received inadequate training in many areas, including on hazardous energy sources and communication.
The total amount of fines proposed for the violations was $174,600.
Construction accidents and injuries can result in seriously adverse consequences for an employee and his or her family. Negligence is often involved, as is the need for a prompt and thorough investigation and diligence in seeking rightful compensation and benefits for any harms suffered.
Contact an experienced Ohio construction accident attorney for further information.
Source: Occupational Health and Safety, “OSHA busts Ohio manufacturer for 55 safety violations,” March 7, 2012