Employees at a Florida health care facility were exposed to verbal threats as well as punches, kicks, bites and other physical assaults – including some using objects as weapons, according to OSHA, which has cited the company for failing to protect its workers from violent mental health patients.

OSHA cited Premier Behavioral Health Solutions of Florida Inc. and UHS of Delaware Inc., the operators of Bradenton-based Suncoast Behavioral Health Center. The agency has proposed penalties against the company totaling $71,137.

Numerous incidents

“This citation reflects a failure to effectively address numerous incidents over the past two years resulting in serious injuries to employees of the facility,” said Les Grove, OSHA Tampa Area Office Director.

OSHA’s investigation was in response to a complaint. Another UHS subsidiary was cited in 2016 for a deficient workplace violence program.

Premier Behavioral Health Solutions of Florida Inc. and UHS of Delaware Inc. have 15 business days from receipt of its citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.