Injuries to two employees in two separate incidents have resulted in OSHA citations against a Mobile, Alabama packaging manufacturer.
One of the workers at the ProAmpac facility suffered a severe hand injury after being caught in a piece of equipment. Another employee sustained a finger laceration when struck by moving machine parts.
In an inspection that was part of OSHA’s National Emphasis Program on Amputations, the agency determined that the employer failed to use machine guarding, and lockout/tagout procedures to control hazardous energy while maintaining or servicing machinery.
The agency cited Ampac Mobile Holdings LLC – which operates as ProAmpac – for exposing employees to caught-in and struck-by hazards. The company faces $75,156 in penalties.
ProAmpac’s mission, according to its website, is “To provide a steadfast commitment to a diverse global marketplace through our creative packaging solutions, industry-leading customer service and award-winning innovations.”
OSHA Acting Mobile Area Office Director Jose Gonzalez said that evaluating and correcting amputation hazards – as part of a comprehensive safety program - could have prevented the injuries.
The company has 15 business days from receipt of the 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.
