ArcelorMittal Tubular Products USA LLC Fails to Correct Hazards, Faces Hefty Penalties
On March 26, 2024, the US Department of Labor revealed that ArcelorMittal Tubular Products USA LLC, a prominent steel supplier, is facing $253K in proposed penalties for failing to address safety hazards at its Shelby facility. This comes after a 60-year-old employee suffered severe injuries due to inadequate safety measures.
Failure to Protect Employees
Despite previous citations for similar hazards in 2022, the company neglected to safeguard its employees from harm. In December 2023, an employee working as a tube handler sustained lower arm and wrist injuries after getting caught in a pinch point created by a bundle of steel tubes and a rotating roller conveyor. OSHA investigators discovered that the conveyor’s pinch points were not adequately guarded, leading to the unfortunate incident.
Repeat Violations and Lack of Training
Following the investigation, OSHA issued four repeat violations against ArcelorMittal Tubular Products USA LLC. These violations included inadequate machine guarding, failure to implement lockout/tagout procedures, and neglecting to train workers on safety protocols to reduce exposure to operating machine parts.
Preventable Injuries and the Importance of Safety
OSHA Area Director Todd Jensen emphasized that this injury was preventable had the company taken appropriate action to protect its workers. Safety should be a fundamental value for every company, and neglecting safety measures can have severe consequences.
Compliance and Next Steps
The company has 15 business days to comply with the citations and penalties, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Practical Tips for Workplace Safety
Implementing robust safety measures in the workplace is crucial to protect employees from injuries. Some practical tips for enhancing workplace safety include:
1. Proper Machine Guarding:
Ensure that all machinery is adequately guarded to prevent contact with moving parts.
2. Lockout/Tagout Procedures:
Implement proper lockout/tagout procedures to control hazardous energy sources and prevent unexpected machine startup.
3. Employee Training:
Train employees on safety protocols and procedures to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
Conclusion
Ensuring a safe work environment is essential for the well-being of employees and the overall success of a company. By prioritizing safety measures and compliance with regulations, companies can create a culture of safety that protects workers from harm.
For more information on workplace safety, OSHA regulations, and the National Emphasis Program on Amputation Hazards, visit the official OSHA website.