OSHA Cites Ohio Foundry for Safety, Health Violations

The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration is proposing fines totaling $114,000 against a Deshler, OH, ferrous foundry, alleging willful violation and multiple serious violations of federal workplace safety standards. Cast Metals Inc. produces gray and ductile iron castings.

OSHA conducted an inspection in March at Cast Metals Inc. in a local program emphasizing workplace safety in primary metal operations. As a result of the inspection, OSHA issued citations alleging one willful violation and 39 serious violations, including 23 safety and 16 health regulation issues.

"These issues should not exist at any worksite," stated OSHA’s Toledo area office director Jule Hovi. "Employers must remain dedicated to keeping the workplace safe and healthful or face close OSHA scrutiny."

The willful violation concerns Cast Metals’ lack of lockout/tagout training for employees exposed to unexpected energized equipment during maintenance and service. Some of the serious violations concern a lack of personal protective equipment or face and eye protection for employees working in proximity to molten metal; training deficiencies; electrical hazards; overexposure to silica and lead; lack of training in respiratory protection; and a high level of noise exposure.

OSHA regulations indicated Cast Metals Inc. may contest the allegations to the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission during the 15 business days following its receipt of the citations.