CONVERSE, TX –Pallet Repair Services S.A. Inc. has been cited for exposing workers to amputation hazards and other safety violations by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
OSHA initiated its investigation on Feb. 2 as part of its Site-Specific Targeting Program. The 37-man shop was cited for 13 serious and three other than serious violations. OSHA also issued $48,900 in proposed fines.
According to OSHA, Pallet Repair Services' workers were observed manufacturing wood pallets without adequate protection from rotating machine parts, electrical hazards and other dangers.
Serious violations lodged against the company included:
* Failing to provide machine guarding to prevent amputations while working with rotating blades;
* Failing to provide guarding over rotating shafts on trim saws;
* Failing to implement fall protection safeguards, such as guardrails in elevated areas;
* Failing to keep areas around electrical equipment clear of debris; and
* Failing to provide a hearing conservation program when noise levels in work areas exceed 85 decibels.
Rich Christianson is Associate Publisher and Editor at Large of Woodworking Network. During his 25+ years covering the wood products industry, Rich has toured hundreds of manufacturing plants throughout North America, Europe and Asia. His reporting has covered everything from the state of the industry and impact of wood imports to technology and environmental issues. In his current capacity he is responsible for editing the daily Woodworking Network Update newsletter and coordinating events including the annual Cabinets & Closets Conference & Expo and Canada’s biennial Woodworking Machinery & Supply Expo.
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