US Labor Department's OSHA cites Georgia company for exposing
employees at Dayton, NJ, facility to amputation hazards

DAYTON, N.J. – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Norcross, Ga.-based Rock-Tenn Co. for exposing workers at its Dayton facility to amputation hazards caused by unguarded rotating equipment parts. OSHA initiated an inspection on May 31 under its National Emphasis Program on Amputations that resulted in a citation for a second repeat violation, carrying a $55,000 penalty.

The employer was cited for the same violation on Sept. 15, 2010, at its Norcross facility, and on Dec. 10, 2008, at a facility in Milwaukee, Wis. A repeat violation exists when an employer previously has been cited for the same or a similar violation of a standard, regulation, rule or order at any other facility in federal enforcement states within the last five years.

"Moving machine parts have the potential to cause severe workplace injuries, such as crushed fingers or hands and amputations," said Patricia Jones, director of OSHA's Avenel Area Office. "This company must protect employees from exposure to hazards that can cause such debilitating injuries."

Rock-Tenn Co. manufactures corrugated shipping containers and employs 104 workers at its Dayton location.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations to comply, ask for an informal conference with OSHA's area director or contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The investigation was conducted by OSHA's Avenel office; telephone 732-750-3270. To report workplace incidents, fatalities or situations posing imminent danger to workers, call the agency's toll-free hotline at 800-321-OSHA (6742).

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 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.

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