OSHA has added Pandrol USA in Bridgeport, NJ to its Severe Violator Enforcement Program (SVEP) after the company was cited for 25 safety and health violations – including three willful. Proposed penalties total $283,500.

The agency initiated an inspection after receiving complaints alleging hazards – and found plenty. The hazards documented at the facility include failure to use energy control, or "lockout/tagout" procedures, for mechanical and hydraulic presses, failure to provide machine guarding; and failure to ensure that employees performing maintenance and repairs on machinery are properly trained on energy control procedures.

Under the SVEP, Pandrol will be the subject of follow-up inspections to ensure that the company is complying with the law. The program focuses on recalcitrant employers that endanger workers by committing willful, repeat or failure-to-abate violations.