U.S. Department of Labor Cites Pennsylvania Crane Manufacturer for Exposing Employees to Safety Hazards after Fatal Crane Collapse

SHADY GROVE, PA – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Grove U.S. LLC for exposing workers to struck-by hazards after three employees suffered fatal injuries when a 300-ton crane collapsed at the company’s Shady Grove, Pennsylvania, facility. The company faces proposed penalties totaling $14,976, the maximum amount allowed.

OSHA’s investigation of the global crane manufacturer’s facility determined that the company placed employee work facilities too close to the crane testing area where they were in danger of being struck in a failure incident.

“This tragedy could have been avoided if the employer had assessed workplace hazards, and used effective safety procedures to protect employees from serious and fatal injuries,” said OSHA Harrisburg Area Office Director David Olah.

Grove U.S. LLC has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and 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 help 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.