U.S. Department of Labor Issues Notices of Safety Violations Following Fatality at Army Reserve Facility in California

SACRAMENTO, CA – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued notices of safety violations to the U.S. Army Reserve 63 Regional Support Command at a Sacramento, California, maintenance facility.

The notices were issued after a federal civilian employee was fatally injured when the automated lifting mechanism of a utility vehicle cargo box failed and pinned him between the bed and the vehicle frame. OSHA investigators determined that there was not an adequate hazardous energy control program in place and failed to provide required injury and illness records to OSHA in a timely manner.

“Employees must be trained on how to safely perform work activities,” said OSHA Oakland Area Director Amber Rose. “This tragedy could have been prevented had a job hazard analysis been conducted, and an effective safety and health program been in place.”

The command center has 15 business days from receipt of the notices 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.