Amputation leads to OSHA citations for auto parts maker

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration said has cited auto parts manufacturer HP Pelzer Systems Automotive Inc. for safety violations and proposed penalties totaling $129,336 after an employee suffered a finger amputation.

In an investigation that took place from August to October 2017 at the Thomson, Georgia-based company, OSHA found that an employee was removing a gear box motor from an energized scissor lift when it rotated, severing the tip of the employee’s finger, the agency said Tuesday in a statement.

OSHA cited HP Pelzer Systems Automotive for one repeat citation for “failing to train employees on energy control procedures to prevent machines from unintentionally starting during maintenance and service,” the department said in a statement.

“Employers must provide adequate training and appropriate protective equipment to ensure the safety of their employees,” William Fulcherm, OSHA’s Atlanta-East area office director, said in the statement. “This company has a history of repeated disregard for safety requirements, exposing workers to amputation hazards. OSHA will continue to hold this company accountable to ensure the safety of employees.”

HP Pelzer Systems Automotive could not be immediately reached for comment.