U.S. Department of Labor Cites Kansas Grain Bin Operator

WICHITA, KS – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Gavilon Grain LLC – operator of a grain bin based in Wichita, Kansas – after two workers were fatally engulfed in a soybean storage bin. The company faces proposed penalties of $507,374, and OSHA has placed Gavilon Grain LLC in the Agency's Severe Violator Enforcement Program.

OSHA cited Gavilon Grain LLC for failing to provide employees with lifelines and fall protection; lockout equipment; provide rescue equipment; and allowing employees to enter a bin in which bridged and/or hung-up grain was present.

"Moving grain acts like quick sand, and can bury a worker in seconds," said OSHA Regional Administrator Kimberly Stille. "This tragedy could have been prevented if the employer had provided workers with proper safety equipment, and followed required safety procedures to protect workers from grain bin hazards."

The company has contested the citations and will appear 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 https://www.osha.gov.