OSHA recently cited a New Jersey manufacturer after a second amputation injury occurred on the same machine.  A maintenance mechanic lost two fingers while repairing a wrapper machine.  OSHA found that the company willfully failed to shut down and isolate energy to the machine during the repair work.  OSHA has proposed $237,176 in penalties.

That same machine was involved in a 2018 incident.  That incident involved another maintenance worker who lost one finger and fractured another while repairing the jammed equipment.

OSHA requires equipment specific energy isolation procedures for all equipment that cannot be put in zero energy state by disconnecting the power cord.  Each procedure must be documented and reviewed with all affected employees.

Joseph DeMarco, Vice President, PTP Consulting, Inc.