While conducting a follow-up inspection at an iron foundry in Wisconsin, The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited the company with nine safety violations.Industrial Accidents can cause serious physical harm or death to employees due to equipment, heights and dangerous materials. Previously, the location had been investigated per employee tips -- repeat violations, OSHA says, "demonstrate a lack of commitment to workers' well-being." The repeat violations include safety violations in reference to equipment, including an electrical junction box.
There were also seven 'serious' violations, which occur when the hazards involved could cause serious injury or death, which the employer would be aware is a possibility. Unguarded, one-sided platforms, lack of fall protection equipment and unsafe crane conditions, among others. Any one of these hazards could result in permanent injury or death for employees.
It is the responsibility of the employer to adhere to OSHA standards for the health, welfare and safety of their employees. For workers who are injured as a result of ill-supplied or ill-maintained equipment, be it in an iron foundry, steel mill or retail store, there are options open to them to seek compensation. Workers' compensation is open to any employee who is hurt on the job, but there are additional claims to be made, especially if OSHA is investigating the employer. OSHA always encourages employees to report any unsafe conditions.
Employees hurt on the job due to negligence of the employer may fear retaliation and may not know where to turn. An experienced employment law attorney can be an excellent resource for workers in need and their families.
Source: OSHA.gov, "US Department of Labor's OSHA cites Grede Wisconsin with 9 safety violations during follow-up inspection at Berlin, Wis., iron foundry," Nov. 14, 2012
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