The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited metals recycler Gaby Iron and Metal Co., Chicago Heights, Ill., with 17 alleged health and safety violations, including allowing workers to exceed allowable exposure limits to lead and failing to require respirators to be worn. The citations carry total penalties of $135,850.
OSHA's inspection, initiated earlier this year from a State of Illinois Lead Enforcement Program referral, cited Gaby Iron and Metal Co. with four alleged willful violations with proposed fines of $112,000 for failing to implement a respiratory protection program, failing to provide a written lead compliance or training plan, failing to monitor air for lead during process or material changes and allowing workers to be exposed to lead in excess of allowable limits. A willful violation is one committed with intentional, knowing or voluntary disregard for the law's requirement, or plain indifference to employee safety and health.
"Gaby Iron and Metal has demonstrated disregard for the safety and welfare of its workers by not following OSHA safety standards to monitor employees' exposure to hazardous materials," said OSHA Area Director Gary Anderson. "We are committed to protecting workers by enforcing safe practices and OSHA regulations."
Gaby Iron and Metal Co. was also inspected by OSHA in 2006, resulting in three serious citations for lack of protective clothing for welders and improper oxygen cylinder storage, and in 1984, when OSHA inspectors noted the lack of a hearing conservation program.
The company has 15 business days from receipt of its latest citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
The company said that at the present time they have no comment on the citations.
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