A Chicago-based manufacturer ignored safety requirements and put workers at risk for debilitating injuries because dangerous machines with moving parts lacked proper safety mechanisms. OSHA has found.

Chicago Dryer was inspected in October 2014 by agency investigators and cited for one willful and 20 serious safety and health violations, including exposing workers to struck-by hazards because the company used damaged crane slings to carry 3,000-pound cylinders. The company faces proposed penalties of $171,000.

"When a press brake lacks safety features, one slip and a worker can lose a hand," said Angeline Loftus, area director of OSHA's Chicago North Area Office in Des Plaines. "OSHA found multiple serious violations in this industrial setting. Chicago Dryer needs to address the use of damaged equipment immediately and lack of training that puts workers at risk for serious and potentially fatal injuries."

Responding to an employee complaint, agency investigators saw workers endangered by machine hazards during the manufacturing process. Employees were exposed to unguarded press brakes, resulting in one willful violation.

Additionally, Chicago Dryer did not remove damaged crane slings and and failed to develop machine-specific procedures for controlling unintentional machine operation during service and maintenance, including affixing locking devices powered industrial vehicles from use. Workers were exposed to fall hazards because railings were not installed on open stairs and working surfaces.

Finally, exit routes were blocked and exit doors were locked and electrical safety hazards and lack of training were also noted. A total of 20 serious safety and health violations were issued.

An OSHA violation is serious if death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard an employer knew or should have known exists.

View the current citations at http://www.osha.gov/ooc/citations/Chicago_Dryer_Company_999915_0407_15.pdf.