U.S. Department of Labor Cites Georgia Manufacturer For 36 Safety And Health Violations

SHADY DALE, GA – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited Oldcastle Lawn & Garden Inc. after a workplace safety inspection found 36 violations that put employees at risk. The Shady Dale, Georgia, manufacturer of mulch and other products faces proposed penalties of $251,108.

Inspectors cited the company for safety and health violations, including amputation, struck-by, caught-in, electrical, and fall hazards; fire hazards from accumulated combustible dust; and exposure to excessive noise levels, and hazardous energy during machine servicing and maintenance. The inspection was part of OSHA’s National Emphasis Program on Amputations.

“Employers are required to assess their workplace for potential hazards,” said William Fulcher, OSHA Atlanta-East Area Office Director. “Unfortunately, this employer failed to correct a wide-range of safety deficiencies and needlessly put their employees at risk of serious injury.”

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.