Failure to protect workers results in fines for Illinois company

 Posted on July 10,2013 in Firm News

Employers are required by law to provide proactive safety measures including training and inspections to ensure a safe environment for all employees and to minimize the risk of workplace injury. The guidelines developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are implemented with these same goals in mind.

A scrap metal company with multiple locations in Illinois has received multiple citations for breaking the stated OSHA guidelines. Many of the violations are noted as “serious” by OSHA, a label given by the organization to an action has a high chance of resulting in either the death or serious injury of a worker. The latest inspection of the company was conducted as part of an OSHA program that focuses on companies with a higher than typical rate of reported injuries on the job. 

The Midland Davis Corporation plant in Pekin, IL received citations in 2012. Now, the Moline, IL plant is the subject of 19 citations with a combined fine of nearly $65,000. Violations include the lack of protection against falls, leaving damaged equipment in use, lack of periodic safety inspections and lack of proper training for power vehicle operators and more. The company’s actions leave workers vulnerable to injury, according to OSHA.

When injured workers have been involved in an accident that could have been prevented, action can be taken. It is important to know the laws and your rights if you are injured in an accident while on the job. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and the compensation that may be available to you. 

Source: WQAD 8 ABC, “OSHA fines Moline scrap metal recycler for endangering workers,” Shellie Nelson, July 3, 2013