US Department of Labor cites TAV Holdings for continual workplace hazards

• install a fall protection system around unprotected sides of a pit;  

• keep exit routes unobstructed and post signs along obscured exits to show the correct routes;  

• specify techniques to isolate energy sources on machines within the energy control procedures;  

• train employees on hazardous energy sources for equipment;  

• provide guarding on rotating parts and ingoing nip and pinch points on a drill press and conveyer;  

• mark electrical panel circuits to indicate their purpose and enclose an electrical control panel;  

• provide audiometric testing or annual training on hazards associated with high noise levels and provide hearing protection to some employees; and  

• conduct annual training on the use of respirators and fit tests for employees.  

"TAV Holdings Inc.'s repeated disregard for workers' safety is inexcusable, especially after our previous investigations identified the serious risks involved," says OSHA Area Office Director Jeffery Stawowy in Atlanta-West. "They have a legal obligation to provide their employees with a safe and healthy workplace."  

During the Atlanta on-site visit, OSHA inspectors found that Atlanta's XL MachineWorks LLC, a metal fabrication contractor employed at TAV Holdings, failed to train its employees on how to safely operate forklifts and properly anchor a bench grinder. The contractor also failed to guard a lathe machine and improperly used extension cords to power equipment. For these violations, the agency proposed $11,188 in penalties to XL MachineWorks.