Crown USA fined $99K after maintenance worker was crushed inside an unlocked machine
An OSHA investigation has determined that Crown USA Inc. could have prevented the death of a 37-year-old maintenance technician. The worker was inside an unlocked hooding palletizer, servicing the machine, when they suffered fatal crushing injuries. According to OSHA, the plastic and resin manufacturer could have stopped the accident if they were following required safety rules designed to keep machines from starting up during maintenance.
During the investigation, Crown USA was cited for eight serious and six other-than-serious violations. These violations include failing to implement adequate machine guarding, a lack of training on energy control procedures, exposing workers to serious respiratory hazards, and failing to provide proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Because of these violations, the company faces $98,699 in penalties.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Jeffery Stawowy said, “Employers must understand federal workplace safety regulations exist to help prevent tragedies like the one that occurred at Crown USA Inc. OSHA is available to answer employers’ questions and to help them understand their obligations. We can also provide employers resources for identifying hazards in their workplaces and developing safety programs.”
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