Jonathan Gilmore, 26, was killed when he was pulled into a machine and crushed. Now OSHA has issued the employer more than $226K in fines.
The death occurred at Gulf Cable LLC in Milton, FL, on Nov. 29, 2016. The company manufactures electrical cable.
Gilmore was trying to guide electrical wiring cable into a re-spool machine when he was pulled in.
Now Gulf Cable faces $226,431 in OSHA fines for 12 violations, including:
- a willful citation for failure to install guards to prevent machine operators from coming into contact with the cable as it wound onto the spool
- a repeat citation for failure to develop, document and use hazardous energy control procedures to prevent machines from operating while employees performed service and maintenance
- a serious citation for failure to install guardrails on all four sides of machinery in the pit area, exposing workers to trip and fall hazards
- a serious citation for failure to keep aisles and passageways clear and in good repair, with no obstruction across or in aisles that could create a hazard
- a serious citation for failure to repair cut electrical wiring for the emergency-stop foot pedal, exposing workers to electrical shock, and
- an other-than-serious violation for failure to conduct a hazard assessment.
“Employers have a responsibility to provide safe work environments for their workers regardless of production schedules,” said Brian Sturtecky, OSHA’s area director in Jacksonville, FL.
Gulf Cable has 15 business days from receipt of the citations to pay them, enter into informal talks with OSHA, or contest them to the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
