Auto parts manufacturer fined $182K after worker is severely injured by arc flash
An OSHA investigation has determined that Aludyne Columbus LLC, which operates as Aludyne Columbus Foundry, exposed its workers to respiratory and electrical hazards. OSHA was investigating a complaint when the agency learned that a maintenance worker at the auto parts manufacturing plant was severely injured from an electrical transformer explosion, causing OSHA to open a second investigation. The employee was attempting to replace a blown fuse on a transformer when they were injured by an arc flash.
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The company was ultimately cited for 22 serious and three other-than-serious violations. These violations include failing to provide and require the use of recommended PPE, including electrical suits and NIOSH-approved respirators; permitting the use of non-insulated tools within 12 inches of energized power lines; and exposing employees to airborne concentration of respirable silica of up to 15 times above the permissible time-weighted average. The company faces $182,344 in penalties.
In a recent quote, OSHA Atlanta-West Area Office Director Jeffery Stawowy said, “Aludyne Columbus LLC’s failure to prioritize employee safety and health nearly cost a worker their life and allowed employees to be overexposed to silica well above the permissible exposure limit. This employer must take worker safety seriously by assessing hazards and taking responsibility for protecting their workers.”
About the Author
Alexis Gajewski
Senior Content Strategist
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.