Connecticut Metal-finishing Plant Fined for Serious Hazards

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Har-Conn Chrome Co. Inc. for 15 violations of workplace health and safety standards at the company's plant in West Hartford, Conn. The metal finisher faces $66,220 in fines following a complaint that prompted an investigation by OSHA's Hartford area office.

"We found employees exposed to various chemical and mechanical hazards, including similar hazards cited during a 2010 inspection of the plant," said Warren Simpson, OSHA's area director in Hartford. "Left uncorrected, employees are exposed to fire, chemical burns, eye injuries, lacerations and other substances. For the health and well-being of its workers, the employer must take effective action to address and prevent these conditions."

Specifically, the employer failed to provide emergency eye and face protection for workers around caustic liquids, install adequate guarding on grinders and shafting, and label containers of hazardous chemicals. OSHA cited the plant for similar hazards in May 2010. For these recurring hazards, OSHA has issued Har-Conn six repeat citations with $36,960 in fines.

Nine serious citations, with $29,260 in fines, were issued for failing to monitor workers' exposure levels to formaldehyde, conduct an asbestos survey, provide hand protection, train workers on using fire extinguishers, furnish first-aid supplies, ensure an adequate workspace around spray booths and properly dispose of combustible waste materials.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and proposed penalties to comply, meet informally with OSHA's area director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

For more information, visit www.osha.gov.