During a recent investigation, OSHA discovered that Air Starter Components Inc. failed to correct safety hazards. In 2022, a worker’s hand became caught in a polishing machine that was not equipped with required safety guards, resulting in the employee suffering a finger amputation. In a follow-up visit to the facility, the engine component manufacturer was cited for two repeat violations for failing to adjust bench grinders properly and for not posting 2022 OSHA injury and illness logs as required. In addition, Air Starter Components was cited for four serious safety violations that included unguarded projected shaft ends, electrical equipment used beyond its safe limits, and extension cords used in place of required permanent wiring. The company faces $127,187 in penalties for these citations.
Additionally, OSHA issued failing to abate citations for the company’s inability to fix identified issues from a previous inspection and failing to include a 2022 recordable injury on its OSHA 300 log. For these issues, Air Starter Components was fined an additional $171,063.
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Mark Briggs said, “Rather than correcting the hazards we identified in 2022, Air Starter Components was still operating equipment without required safety guards and doing so resulted in another worker suffering a debilitating injury. Complying with safety standards is not optional. Employers who fail to follow required procedures will be held accountable.”