Steel plant fined $270K for repeat safety violations after facing $364K in penalties 2 years ago

Steel plant fined $270K for repeat safety violations after facing $364K in penalties 2 years ago

July 22, 2024
The steel plant was added to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Severe Violator Enforcement Program two years ago after the company was cited for 19 serious violations.

An OSHA inspection has determined that Kyoei Steel LTD is continuing to endanger its workers. The steel plant was added to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Severe Violator Enforcement Program two years ago after the company was cited for 19 serious violations and faced $364,078 in proposed penalties.

During its most recent inspection in January 2024, OSHA inspectors found five repeat and two serious violations. These violations include failing to effectively guard machines, thus exposing workers to moving parts; failing to maintain slings and keep workers clear of sling loads; and failing to evaluate employees’ medical ability to use a respirator.  Because of these violations, Kyoei Steel faces $269,631in penalties.

What people are saying

In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Diego Alvarado Jr. said, “Vinton Steel continues to show a callous disregard for the safety of its employees by exposing them to potentially deadly hazards. The company must immediately stop endangering its workers and correct its safety failures before someone gets seriously injured or worse.”

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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. 

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