Machine shop cited after welder's electrocution

A Missouri machine shop was cited and is facing $59,000 in proposed fines from federal health and safety regulators after the electrocution death of a 43-year-old welder.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited Marthasville, Missouri-based Homeyer Precision Manufacturing for 11 serious and one other-than-serious safety violations after investigating the fatal May 2015 incident, according to an agency news release issued on Tuesday.

Investigators believe the welder was disassembling a live, 480-volt flexible cord when he received the electrical shock, according to the news release. They determined that Homeyer failed to train employees on electrical safe work practices and to isolate energy to machines and equipment and provide personal protective equipment, among other violations.

“Employees working with electricity must be trained on shock, arc flash and electrocution hazards and how to protect themselves,” Bill McDonald, OSHA’s area director in St. Louis, said in a statement. “This training must include locking out the electrical source and use of proper protective tools and personal equipment provided by the employer. Homeyer has a responsibility to take all steps possible to prevent tragic injuries and deaths in the workplace."

A company spokesman could not be immediately reached for comment.