News Release
Department of Labor fines New Jersey transportation company $437K after inspectors find workers exposed to safety, health hazards at Paulsboro site
PAULSBORO, NJ – A transportation company is facing $437,860 in federal penalties after an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration found workplace safety and health hazards at its Paulsboro site.
OSHA initiated its inspection of Dana Container in July 2023 in response to an employee complaint that alleged safety and health deficiencies. The agency cited the company for one willful violation because they did not properly maintain safety data sheets for chemicals, including corrosives.
Three repeat violations involved chemical container labels that were not updated and, therefore, workers were not made aware of the names of new chemicals; eyewash stations that were not properly maintained; and medical evaluations that were not conducted for workers prior to respirator use. OSHA previously cited Dana Container in 2019 and 2023 for similar violations. Four serious citations were also issued because the company failed to inspect hoists, establish a written hazard communication program and ensure safety requirements were met during use of a lifeline fall protection system.
“Dana Container continues to jeopardize the well-being of its workers by repeatedly disregarding federal safety and health laws and standards,” said OSHA Area Office Director Paula Dixon-Roderick in Marlton, New Jersey. “The company must address these violations immediately to fulfill its legal obligation to provide a safe and healthful workplace.”
Dana Container Inc. is a nationwide transportation company whose principal business is to lease transportation equipment and operate tank truck washes.
The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Visit OSHA’s website for information on developing a workplace safety and health program. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA’s compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.
