Dec. 18, 2014
OSHA investigation finds
workers exposed to lead, copper fumes at Republic Metals in Cleveland, Ohio
CLEVELAND – A complaint that
alleged unsafe work conditions at Republic Metals Inc. resulted in U.S.
Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration inspectors
uncovering dangerous levels of lead
and copper fumes. The investigation found that the
company failed to implement engineering controls and maintain areas free of
lead dust and accumulation. The Aug. 4, 2014, inspection of the Cleveland
facility resulted in 19 serious safety and health citations, with proposed
penalties of $42,800.
Lead exposure can cause long-term damage to the central
nervous, urinary, blood and reproductive systems.
"Lead is a leading cause of workplace illness and a common
health hazard. Lead particles can travel from work sites on clothing and
materials, which endangers workers' and families' lives," said Howard
Eberts, OSHA's area director in Cleveland. "Republic Metals failed to
protect employees from known dangers in its manufacturing process, and this
must stop."
OSHA found workers were exposed to copper fumes and lead in
excess of levels allowed over an eight-hour period. The agency identified the
company's failure to implement engineering controls that would have limited
exposure and to train employees about exposure hazards. Republic Metals also
did not monitor worker overexposure and failed to post warning signs in
overexposure areas, and it did not provide properly fitted respirators or train
workers in respiratory protection use.
Other violations involved lack of personal protective equipment,
hygiene and housekeeping practices. Additionally, Republic Metals did not
monitor employee exposure to excess noise properly and failed to train
workers on potential exposure to methylene chloride. The inspectors also noted
electrical hazards, lack of machine guarding and struck-by hazards from
machinery.
A serious violation occurs when there is substantial
probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard
about which the employer knew or should have known.
Republic Metals has 15 business days from receipt of its
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.
To ask questions, obtain compliance assistance, file a
complaint, or report workplace hospitalizations, fatalities or situations
posing imminent danger to workers, the public should call OSHA's toll-free
hotline at 800-321-OSHA (6742) or the agency's Cleveland office at
216-447-4194.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers
are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their
employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men
and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education
and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.