OSHA cites Ohio concrete facility for safety and health violations

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Prestress Services Industries of Ohio LLC for 20 safety and health violations at the concrete production plant in Mount Vernon, Ohio. The company faces penalties of $158,555.

Inspectors determined that noise levels in the plant were above the permissible exposure limit, and that the company failed to train, test, monitor, and provide medical surveillance for employees exposed to noise. OSHA also cited the company for exposing employees to silica, respiratory, machine, and electrical hazards.

"These hazards can cause workers to suffer immediate and long-term adverse health effects," said OSHA Columbus Area Director Larry Johnson. "Employers must recognize the safety and health risks inherent to their work operations, and take necessary precautions to protect employees who perform those operations."

The company has contested the findings and will appear before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.