An OSHA investigation has determined that Pepsi Guam Bottling exposed its workers to amputation and other serious injuries by leaving the machines’ guard doors open and permitting a safety proximity switch to be deactivated. The company reached a settlement with the U.S. Department of Labor before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission and will have to pay $132,591 in penalties.
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In addition, the company must correct the safety failures found during the investigation, as well as implement a comprehensive safety and health program. As part of the plan to improve Pepsi Guam Bottling’s safety culture, the company will allow inspection of the facility, form a health and safety committee, and write an official safety and health plan. The company was initially investigated in October 2022 and received citations for one willful violation, one repeat violation and six serious violations.
In a recent quote, OSHA Regional Administrator James Wulff said, “Pepsi Guam Bottling’s agreement to boost its workplace safety protocols will help protect employees and put workers on an equal footing thanks to their inclusion in a new safety and health committee. OSHA will closely monitor the terms of this settlement agreement and provide any assistance needed or required to ensure compliance.”
Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector.