Foundry fined $234K after 2 workers suffer finger amputations just 11 days apart

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.”