Industry News

Sawmill fined $284K by OSHA for 19 health and safety violations

Jan. 17, 2024

The inspection was conducted because the Wisconsin sawmill is part of a federal program for severe violators and has been since 2019.

Alexis Gajewski

An OSHA investigation has determined that Tigerton Lumber Co. is continuing to expose its workers to amputations hazards and other safety concerns. The inspection was conducted because the Wisconsin sawmill is part of a federal program for severe violators and has been since 2019. OSHA thoroughly inspected the company’s maintenance shop, stacking and planning area, and the sawmill and cited Tigerton for three repeat violations, 14 serious violations and two other-than-serious violations.

These violations include failing to provide workers with proper safety training, ignoring regulations for energy control procedures, and failing to affix personal locks needed as part of lockout/tagout programs. The sawmill is facing $283,608 in proposed penalties.

In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Robert Bonack said, “In 2018, a Tigerton Lumber Co. employee was fatally injured in a tragic and preventable incident caused by similar hazards found during this inspection. The company is legally required to ensure safety devices are used and procedures followed to protect workers from dangerous machinery. By complying with federal regulations and industry recognized best practices, the company can help prevent employees from suffering serious injuries or worse.”

About the Author

Alexis Gajewski | Senior Content Strategist

Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector.