U.S. Department of Labor Cites Georgia Transmissions Manufacturer For Exposing Employees to Safety Hazards After Fatality

WEST POINT, GA – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Hyundai Transys Georgia Powertrain Inc. – operating as Powertech America Inc. – for exposing employees to struck-by and fall hazards after a fatality at the company’s West Point, Georgia, facility. The automobile transmission manufacturer faces $68,194 in penalties.

The employee suffered fatal injury when a transmission turnover machine activated while the employee performed maintenance.

OSHA cited Hyundai Transys Georgia Powertrain Inc. for failing to train employees to control the release of hazardous energy and use energy isolation devices. OSHA also cited the company for failing to provide lockout procedures to employees in their native language, provide fall protection and implement a hearing conservation program. OSHA conducted the inspection in conjunction with the Agency’s Regional Emphasis Program for Safety Hazards in Auto Parts Industry.

“Failure to adequately control hazardous energy is a leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities in the auto parts industry,” said OSHA Atlanta-West Area Director Jeffery Stawowy. “Employers must provide workers with the tools and information needed to ensure safety for themselves and coworkers.”

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.

The mission of the Department of Labor is to foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.