OSHA cites countertop company for machine hazards

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Tyler, Texas-based stone countertop manufacturer Berry Marble Co. Inc. for exposing employees to machine hazards and proposed $318,687 in penalties.

OSHA inspectors determined that the company, doing business as U.S. Granite, failed to remove damaged lifting slings from service; train workers in lockout/tagout procedures; review the company’s lockout/tagout procedures; complete a hazard assessment; and provide employees with adequate hand protection. OSHA cited the company for similar violations in May 2015, the agency said Thursday in a statement.

“It is unacceptable for an employer to continue to expose employees to serious hazards by disregarding known safety requirements,” said OSHA Dallas Area Office Director Basil Singh in the statement.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Officials with Berry Marble could not be reached for comment.