Pa. machine maker cited for exposing workers to chemicals

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration said Friday it has cited a machine manufacturing company for exposing employees to dangerous chemical hazards and proposed penalties totaling $14,782.

Last August, OSHA found Allentown, Pennsylvania-based Lamm’s Machine Inc. employees were exposed to hazardous chemical vapors from a degreasing operation in an enclosed space. The manufacturing company was cited for “failing to evaluate the workplace to determine if there was a need for respirators, develop a respiratory protection program, use effective ventilation systems and respirators, ensure proper use of compressed air for cleaning purposes and provide proper hand protection,” OSHA said in a statement.

“Employers must monitor their facilities to ensure workplace health and safety procedures are adequate and effective,” Jean Kulp, OSHA area office director in Allentown, said in a statement. “Exposure to these types of hazardous chemical vapors can lead to serious illnesses and health issues.”

Lamm’s Machine could not be immediately reached for comment.