An OSHA investigation has determined that Waupaca Foundry Inc. violated federal regulations for control of hazardous energy during servicing and maintenance. Within an 11-day period, two employees working in the mill room of the foundry suffered amputations, triggering the investigations. In April, an employee lost a finger when they were trying to remove a jammed part. In May, a different worker suffered a finger amputation after their hand was caught between a part and a stand grinding wheel. The OSHA investigations determined that the company failed to prevent employees from touching moving parts with machine guarding and energy control procedures. The foundry was cited for a total of two repeat and six serious violations. Considering that Waupaca Foundry was fined for similar violations in 2019 and 2021, the company will have to pay $234,385 in penalties.
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Robert Bonack said, “Despite repeated employee injuries and OSHA citations, Waupaca Foundry continues to ignore federal and industry-recognized safety requirements to prevent employee exposure to amputation, electrical and other hazards. The foundry must implement procedures and training immediately to protect its employees from these preventable injuries.”