The United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has
cited Marietta Corp. for nine safety and health violations, comprised of six serious and three
repeat violations. They come in response to an inspection of a worksite in Cortland, NY in
November of 2014 after multiple employee complaints. These violations are for hazards relating
to chemical and fire hazards, blocked emergency exit routes, and other hazards. These violations
carry proposed penalties of $103,800.
“The fact that we found new and repeated hazards shows Marietta Corp. must take worker health
and well-being more seriously,” said Christopher Adams, OSHA’s area director in Syracuse. “Its
employees are at risk of illness, injury or worse from dangerous chemicals, fire and an inability
to escape in an emergency.”
Inspectors found workers without required eye and face protection and emergency eyewash
stations; employees not trained in the use of dangerous chemicals; forklift operators who did not
receive refresher training; flammable liquids improperly stored and improperly used; employees
with respirators without proper training or medical clearance; and containers with hazardous
chemicals which were improperly labeled.
This is just another example of the importance of a complete and comprehensive occupational
safety and health plan. If you do not ensure all aspects of your occupational health and safety
plans are accurate and up to date, you run the risk of multiple citations, large fines, and serious
potential workplace injuries.
If you have any questions about this case or about reviewing and updating your occupational
safety and health policies and procedures, please contact us. If you have anything to add about
the importance of updating your policies, please leave a comment.
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