West Fertilizer case shows OSHA needs a bigger budget, say worker safety advocates
Could more inspection power have prevented the tragedy?
The fine levied by OSHA against the company whose West, Texas fertilizer storage facility exploded in in April, killing 15 workers, “sends a message,” according to one worker safety coalition – but also highlights how understaffed the agency is.
O’Connor, Executive Director of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (National COSH), said the penalty against the West Fertilizer Co. shows that federal government’s concern with worker safety – particularly around highly toxic chemicals – but it also underscores “direly needed” reforms.