Brooklyn, NY, recycler cited by OSHA for heat-related death
Company failed to train workers about heat hazards
OSHA has cited Cooper Tank & Welding Corp., doing business as Cooper Tank Recycling, for eight serious health and safety violations following the heat-related death of a 64-year-old worker at the Brooklyn recycling facility on 222 Maspeth Ave.
The worker collapsed and later died on July 19, 2013, after working for several hours on a conveyor line, sorting and recycling construction and demolition waste. Workers were exposed to excessive ambient heat stemming from environmental sources and the heat generated by recycling machinery. OSHA's investigation found that the company failed to inform and train workers on the recognition, prevention and treatment of heat-related illnesses and did not provide temperature controls in the work area or implement a work/rest regimen.