Ohio Manufacturer Cited for Machine Hazards

Rubber products manufacturer Boomerang Rubber Inc. is facing a fine of $330,269 after receiving several citations from the US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for machine and safety hazards present in the firm’s Botkins, OH facility. 

OSHA determined the company failed to develop and implement lockout/tagout procedures to prevent workers from being exposed to unintentional machine movement while performing maintenance and also did not install machine guards. Boomerang Rubber also did not provide workers with PPE to prevent electric shock, failed to train workers in safety procedures, and did not properly label chemical containers.

“Employers must ensure their workers are trained in proper machine safety procedures and provided the necessary personal protective equipment to prevent injuries and illness on the job,” said OSHA Toledo Area Office Director Kimberly Nelson in a July 2 release. “Continuous monitoring of facilities and procedures are important components of an effective safety and health program.”

An investigation into the facility was initiated under OSHA’s Site-Specific Targeting Program for employers with higher than average injury and illness rates. 

“Employers are legally responsible for examining workplace conditions and correcting hazards and providing employee training that so work will be performed in a safe and healthful manner,” Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Loren Sweatt said in a statement. 

Boomerang Rubber produces recycled and cord reinforced rubber mud flaps, pickup truck mats, and agricultural products, according to the firm’s website.