An employer can be seriously distraught when a fatal accident happens in the workplace. Not only can this be emotionally challenging, but it can also result in significant financial damage to a company in California. However, the financial damage can be further exacerbated when safety citations are issued. This type of situation will cause a need for a strong employer defense strategy to address the safety citations.
One employer has faced this type of situation in the past and may now be facing it again following a recent workplace accident that left one worker dead. The recent incident occurred at an aluminum company in mid-May. The worker apparently died of a traumatic brain injury. The company, Cardinal Aluminum, has been cited for numerous violations in the past by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA).
OSHA had cited the company for eight violations when it inspected the company twice in June 2012. The regulatory agency fined the aluminum company more than $30,000 for the safety violations discovered by investigators. OSHA is now looking into the most recent workplace accident that has proven to be fatal. Apparently, the victim was bending down at the time when one of the machines struck him in the head.
On the other hand, if OSHA decides to issue citations for work safety violations, the company has a right to an employer defense through the proper legal channels and procedures. This option is available for most employers in similar situations in California, no matter what industry. However, an employer will need to properly research the relevant rules and regulations regarding work safety requirements.
Source: wlky.com, “Coroner releases name of man killed in workplace accident“, May 12, 2015
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