An OSHA investigation has discovered that Ellwood Engineered Castings Co. could have prevented the death of a 30-year-old employee. The incident occurred when the employee was working at the bottom of a pit below the casting operation. According to the agency, the Ohio industrial manufacturer did not have an effective process for containing and managing molten metal leaks, causing the worker to suffer fatal burns.
During the OSHA investigation, Ellwood Engineered Castings was cited for 11 serious violations. These violations include failing to implement an effective permit-required confined space program, not training workers on the dangers in the pit, and exposing workers to fall hazards. Because of these citations, the company faces $145,184 in penalties.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Howard Eberts said, “A worker died needlessly because Ellwood Engineered Castings Co. failed to protect him and his colleagues from obvious and deadly hazards. The company could have prevented this tragedy being responsible and by following well-known safety measures.”
OSHA in the news
Worker dies from woodchipper-related injuries, sawmill fined $267K
The Georgia sawmill was cited for one willful violation for not following hazardous energy control procedures and one repeat violation for failing to apply LOTO devices to isolate all energy sources.
Worker suffers facial burns from molten plastic, Petmate fined $279K
The company, which manufactures pet products, was cited for one willful violation and eight serious violations.
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.
Learn more about industrial safety
Technology That Can Prevent Worker Injuries: NSC
Even with an increased use in technology from 2020 to 2023, there are still barriers.
Good Safety Cultures Can Attract and Retain Talent
Workers need to know that their companies value their safety above all else.
Safety Issues Due to Improper PPE for Women
ASSP professionals note the ill-fitting gloves, for example, could become caught in equipment with rotating parts.