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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued heavy fines to a paper manufacturing facility after one of its workers suffered a partial amputation.
Loparex LLC makes specialty paper and coated films, which are then used in the graphic arts, medical equipment, solar-powered products and electronics industries. The facility makes frequent use of an industrial laminating machine.
On April 8, a worker reached up to wipe dripping liquid from the machine when his glove was pulled into moving parts. His hand was crushed and part of his thumb had to be amputated.
Every employer is required to protect workers from a machine’s moving parts by installing machine guarding. If management had complied with industry regulations, the worker could have remained unharmed, and Loparex could have avoided OSHA’s investigation.
OSHA only issued one violation during the inspection, but it carried a $70,000 penalty. After the employee’s hospital bills and the mandatory upgrades, Loparex will pay dearly for its oversight.
Do I Really Need Machine Guards?
Unfortunately, it is fairly common for workers to sustain deep cuts or crushing injuries after being pulled into a machine’s moving parts. Every year, thousands of employees lose hands, feet and fingertips to industrial machines and poor workplace safety practices.
Workplace accidents that result in serious injuries, like amputations, can be physically and emotionally traumatizing. At Larrimer & Larrimer, we know how difficult recovery can be, which is why we work to help you make the best decisions for your future.
To speak with a licensed attorney about your workers’ comp claim, schedule a free consultation today. For more about OSHA regulations and other workplace policies, follow Larrimer & Larrimer on Facebook or Google Plus.
[Did You Know: Fingertips are the most common amputation.]
Larrimer & Larrimer, LLC—Columbus Workers Comp Attorneys