U.S. Department of Labor Cites Georgia Manufacturer for Amputation, Combustible Dust, and Other Workplace Hazards

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Optima Stantron Corp., a subsidiary of Elma Electronic Inc., for exposing employees to amputation, combustible dust, and other safety and health hazards at the Lawrenceville, Georgia, manufacturing facility. The designer and manufacturer of electronic cabinets faces $161,020 in penalties.

OSHA cited the company for lack of machine guarding, failing to develop and implement a hazardous energy control program, allowing combustible dust to accumulate on surfaces, and using improper electrical power systems. Other violations include failing to implement a respiratory protection program, provide refresher training for operators of powered industrial trucks, provide employees with eye, face, and hand protection to prevent exposure to chemicals, and maintain a chemical hazard communication program.

OSHA conducted the inspection in accordance with the National Emphasis Program for Combustible Dust and the Regional Emphasis Program for Powered Industrial Trucks.

“Employers are responsible for continuously protecting their employees from safety and health hazards,” said OSHA Atlanta-East Area Director William Fulcher. “OSHA offers compliance assistance resources and specialists that can help employers identify and correct hazards in their workplaces.”

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the 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 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 https://www.osha.gov.