An OSHA investigation has determined that Crown USA Inc. could have prevented the death of a 37-year-old maintenance technician. The worker was inside an unlocked hooding palletizer, servicing the machine, when they suffered fatal crushing injuries. According to OSHA, the plastic and resin manufacturer could have stopped the accident if they were following required safety rules designed to keep machines from starting up during maintenance.
During the investigation, Crown USA was cited for eight serious and six other-than-serious violations. These violations include failing to implement adequate machine guarding, a lack of training on energy control procedures, exposing workers to serious respiratory hazards, and failing to provide proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Because of these violations, the company faces $98,699 in penalties.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Jeffery Stawowy said, “Employers must understand federal workplace safety regulations exist to help prevent tragedies like the one that occurred at Crown USA Inc. OSHA is available to answer employers’ questions and to help them understand their obligations. We can also provide employers resources for identifying hazards in their workplaces and developing safety programs.”
OSHA in the news
Sandusky pork processing plant fined $528K for 43 safety violations after workers were exposed to ammonia
The investigations began after the agency was notified that two workers had been exposed to ammonia gas during maintenance of a refrigeration system.
Pallet manufacturer fined $177K after worker is struck by a machine and dies
Since 2016, Konz’s Appleton plant has been inspected five times, and was cited for four serious violations in 2019.
Stanley Black + Decker fined $222K after worker is injured in electrical arc blast
The worker suffered severe burns during an electrical arc blast while trying to replace fuses to repair an industrial oven.
OSHA in the news
Fostering Strong Employee-Supervisor Relationships: A Key to Safety Excellence
When employees trust their supervisors, they are more likely to adhere to safety protocols and guidelines.
A Thoughtful Safety Program Won’t Save a Thoughtless Culture
A survey of 230 manufacturers shows a strong correlation between safety and organizational excellence.
From Defense to Offense on Safety
Traditional safety metrics are backward-looking, but operational KPIs—particularly overall equipment effectiveness—can give manufacturers an advance look at when safety issues are likely to arise.