OSHA Cites Harbison-Walker Refractories in Missouri for Hazards

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued Harbison-Walker Refractories Co. of Vandalia, Mo., 17 workplace safety violations with $119,625 in proposed penalties.

OSHA’s inspection of the masonry block manufacturing company’s facility, initiated under OSHA’s site-specific targeting program addressing employers with high injury and illness rates, found 16 serious violations and one repeat violation.

The serious violations stem from deficiencies in floor guarding, wall openings, mobile ladder stands, exit routes for emergency egress, powered industrial truck operation, machine guarding, use of compressed air, and electrical wiring and equipment.

The repeat violation addresses a hazard associated with the working space around electrical equipment. A repeat violation is issued when an employer previously has been cited for the same or a similar violation of a standard, regulation, rule or order at any other facilities in federal enforcement states within the last five years.

Harbison-Walker Refractories Co. has 15 business days from receipt of the citations to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director in St. Louis or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Source: OSHA