OSHA has cited MVP Kosher Foods LLC for 21 safety and health violations -- including two repeat -- at its Birdsboro facility. The company faces $140,000 in penalties.

The repeat violations, which carry $65,000 in penalties, include failing to provide the proper guards for a ladder way and platforms -- which the company was cited for in 2010.

"This company exposed its workers to unnecessary risk by not correcting these hazards," said Kevin Kilp, director of OSHA's Harrisburg Area Office.

Fifteen serious violations, with $74,000 in penalties, include failing to provide fixed stairs where required, properly support gas cylinders, develop lockout/tagout procedures and training to prevent the inadvertent start up of a machine, guard machines, protect workers from energized conductors, use flexible cords for proper purposes, prevent employees from working on live electrical parts, provide personal protective equipment for employees working on energized equipment, maintain a written hazard communication program and train workers on hazard communications, and provide a hearing conservation program.

Also cited are four other-than-serious violations, with $1,000 in penalties, for failing to complete and post an OSHA 300 form on injuries and illnesses, conduct a hazard assessment, use equipment in accordance with listing and labeling, and effectively close openings through which conductors enter boxes.
The citations can be viewed at: www.osha.gov/ooc/citations/MVPKosherFoodsCitations_315887638_315888503_08072012.pdf*.

MVP Kosher Foods LLC, has 15 days from receipt of the citations to comply, ask for an informal conference with OSHA's area director or contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.