Cleaning products manufacturer fined $195K after worker suffers amputation

An OSHA investigation has determined that Tufco LP violated federal regulations for the control of hazardous energy during service and maintenance work. In addition, the household cleaning products manufacturer failed to report a fingertip amputation that occurred in August 2023. The incident happened while a worker was clearing a pump’s outfeed. OSHA learned that product lines were not locked out or shut down during the overnight shift, which caused the amputation. Tufco LP was cited for one repeat, four serious and two other-than-serious violations. These violations include failing to have written lockout/tagout processes and failing to train workers on LOTO procedures. In addition, the plant lacked a respiratory protection program, and the machines did not have required guarding. The company faces $194,518 in proposed penalties.

In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Robert Bonack said, “Tufco LP expanded their capabilities with new products and machines but failed to assess and mitigate potential hazards prior to allowing employees to run the new product lines. Each year, hundreds of workers suffer injuries because their employers expose them to machine operating parts and fail to train them in safety procedures. Employers should make the health and safety of workers a core value in their workplaces.”