Oven manufacturer faces $187,150 in OSHA penalties

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed $187,150 in fines against International Thermal Systems LLC of Milwaukee for alleged multiple willful and serious violations of federal workplace safety standards.

As a result of safety and health inspections, OSHA issued two willful citations with proposed penalties totaling $100,000, alleging that the company failed to provide adequate fall protection and to evaluate hazards in confined spaces. The agency also issued citations for 36 serious violations with proposed penalties of $87,150 covering a variety of concerns including machine guarding, electrical issues, fall protection and respirators. Other serious violations were for safety and health issues involving spray finishing, fire extinguishers, welding and bloodborne pathogens.

"Falls continue to be a major threat to working men and women," said George Yoksas, director of OSHA's area office in Milwaukee. "Falls are preventable and should not happen at any worksite. Employers must remain committed to keeping the workplace safe and healthful or face scrutiny by this agency."

International Thermal Systems LLC began operation in Milwaukee in 2000. The company manufactures industrial ovens and then disassembles them for shipment to customers. OSHA previously inspected this facility in December 2000, when it was issued an other-than-serious violation involving a crane maintenance program.

OSHA operates a vigorous enforcement program, having conducted more than 38,000 inspections last year and exceeding its inspection goals in each of the last seven years. In fiscal year 2006, OSHA found nearly 84,000 violations of its standards and regulations.