U.S. Department of Labor Cites Southern Tire Mart After Fatality at Texas Retreading Facility

FORT WORTH, TX – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Southern Tire Mart LLC – based in Columbia, Mississippi – for failing to protect employees from serious safety hazards after a worker suffered fatal injuries while attempting to mount a monster truck tire rim at the company's retreading facility in Fort Worth, Texas. The company faces $341,195 in fines.

OSHA inspectors determined the company exposed employees to struck-by, tire explosion, fire, and smoke hazards, and failed to provide a restraining device or barrier, and implement lockout/tagout procedures, as required. OSHA cited Southern Tire Mart – based in Columbia, Mississippi – for 17 violations, two of which are covered under OSHA's National Emphasis Program on Amputations.

"Tragedies like this can be prevented when employers follow required procedures for servicing and repairing trucks," said OSHA Area Director Timothy Minor, in Fort Worth, Texas. "Employers must ensure that workers are trained, and can demonstrate and maintain the ability to service rim wheels safely."

OSHA offers compliance assistance resources on servicing multi-piece and single-piece rim wheels.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citation 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.

Editor's Note: The quote by the area director was edited for clarity.