U.S. Department of Labor Cites Alabama Manufacturer for Safety Hazards, Proposes Penalties Totaling $74,833

MOBILE, AL – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited fiberglass pipe manufacturer RPS Composites Alabama Inc. for safety and health violations after an employee suffered a finger amputation. The company faces $74,833 in proposed penalties.

OSHA investigators determined that due to a lack of machine guarding, the employee’s safety-gloved hand was pulled into a pipe-winding machine, resulting in a finger amputation. OSHA cited the Mobile manufacturer for 10 serious and two other-than-serious violations for exposing employees to struck-by and caught-in hazards by failing to install proper machine guarding; failing to train employees on how to control energy sources; and allowing combustible dust to accumulate.

“Employers must evaluate their workplace to ensure employees are provided appropriate training, and the equipment they use is properly guarded to prevent amputation hazards,” said OSHA Mobile Area Office Director Joseph Roesler.  

The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education, and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.