Huntley company fined by OSHA

The Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration on Monday proposed a $170,500 fine against Huntley-based R&R Metalcraft Inc.

It is the third time the maker of metal parts and sub-generators has been cited by OSHA.

"Any time the fine is above $100,000 it is considered significant, not routine," said Brad Mitchell, spokesman for OSHA in Chicago.

The company, which reportedly has 50 employees, had no comment.

OSHA did not cite the company for safety-related injuries.

The most serious violations were for four "willful violations." OSHA contends the company failed to provide workers with proper safety equipment while dealing with energy sources, failed to properly train employees in how to recognize hazardous energy sources, failed to establish proper lockout/tagout procedures, and failed to provide guard protections.

OSHA also cited nine other violations including failure to provide proper fall protection guards and failure to conduct periodic inspections of energy control procedures.

"Injuries and fatalities from accidents such as electrocution, amputation from improper guard protection or falls are preventable," said Kathy O'Connell, OSHA's Aurora director, in a statement. "Employers must remain dedicated to keeping the workplace safe and healthful or face intense scrutiny by OSHA."

R&R Metalcraft has been cited two times since 1997. In 2003, it was issued 24 citations for lockout/tagout procedures, machine guarding and electrical hazards. The company was fined $23,000 but paid $7,500 after negotiations, OSHA said.

The company has 15 days to appeal.