Michigan Proposes $115K in Fines for Auto Parts Maker

State officials say they’re proposing $115,000 in fines against a Hastings, Mich.-based auto parts maker after inspections found that it failed to adequately protect employees from serious hazards.

The state announced June 30 that the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration found health and safety hazards at Hastings Manufacturing Co. LLC during a January inspection of the piston ring maker.

A message seeking comment from the company was left July 1. It has until later this month to contest the findings.

The state says the most serious violations involved employee overexposure to hazardous air contaminants.

The state says the company earlier dealt with unguarded machinery found during a December inspection and paid a $3,750 fine.