Pottery maker settles OSHA action after kiln death

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has settled workplace safety violations with a Texas pottery company after the death of an assistant plant manager, with the company agreeing to a penalty of $545,160.

On April 16, OSHA investigators determined that the manager was servicing a kiln and became trapped inside when it activated and cited Marshall, Texas-based Marshall Pottery Inc. for six willful violations and 21 serious violations. Citations were issued following OSHA’s investigation into failures to implement confined space and lockout/tagout programs.

“This company was cited for similar violations in 2008 after another fatality at the plant,” OSHA Area Director Basil Singh in Dallas said in a statement. “Failures to implement lockout/tagout and confined space programs are unacceptable. Employers must use all required safeguards and procedures to prevent the recurrence of similar tragedies.”

A company spokesperson could not be immediately reached for comment.