An OSHA investigation has determined that Doskocil Manufacturing Inc., which operates as Petmate, failed to follow safety regulations, which led to an employee being severely burned. When the incident occurred, three workers at the company’s Arlington, Texas plant were using a pry bar to break off excess plastic as they cleaned a structural foam machine. Unfortunately, an injection nozzle dislodged, spraying one of the workers in the face with molten plastic, causing second-and third-degree burns.  

Over the course of the investigation, the company, which manufactures pet products, was cited for one willful violation and eight serious violations. These violations include failing to provide proper eye protection for employees, not isolating energy sources, and failing to implement safety procedures related to the maintenance and cleaning of various machines. Because of these violations, the company faces $278,851 in proposed penalties. 

What people are saying

In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Timothy Minor said, “When proper safety processes and procedures are ignored, industrial workplaces can be dangerous and unforgiving for employees. Petmate’s failures to comply with federal safety regulations exposed its employees to serious dangers, resulting in one worker suffering severe injuries.”

OSHA in the news

Kabco Builders fined $81K after worker suffers fatal 10-foot fall 
According to OSHA, the incident could have been avoided if the company was following required fall protection standards. 

Crown USA fined $99K after maintenance worker was crushed inside an unlocked machine 
The worker was inside an unlocked hooding palletizer, servicing the machine, when they suffered fatal crushing injuries.

Sandusky pork processing plant fined $528K for 43 safety violations after workers were exposed to ammonia
The investigations began after the agency was notified that two workers had been exposed to ammonia gas during maintenance of a refrigeration system.

Learn more about industrial safety

Good Safety Cultures Can Attract and Retain Talent
Workers need to know that their companies value their safety above all else.

A Thoughtful Safety Program Won’t Save a Thoughtless Culture
A survey of 230 manufacturers shows a strong correlation between safety and organizational excellence.

From Defense to Offense on Safety
Traditional safety metrics are backward-looking, but operational KPIs—particularly overall equipment effectiveness—can give manufacturers an advance look at when safety issues are likely to arise.