The Denver Post reported that the Occupational Safety & Health Administration has cited Evraz Rocky Mountain Steel in Pueblo for what it calls one repeat, five serious and two other than serious violations after a safety inspection of the company's seamless tube mill. The proposed fines total USD 49,900.

The repeat violation involves employee exposure to amputation hazards from rotating machine parts. Evraz was cited for a similar hazard in July 2009.

The serious violations involve failing to properly implement a lockout or tag out program for energy sources, provide adequate guarding of belts and pulleys, provide proper storage of flammable materials and protect workers from exposure to electrical hazards. An OSHA violation is serious if death or serious physical harm can result from a hazard an employer knew or should have known exists.

The other than serious violations involve the employer's failure to maintain fire extinguishers and material safety data sheets. An other than serious violation has a direct relationship to job safety and health, but probably would not cause death or serious physical harm.

Mr John Healy, OSHA area office director in Englewood, said that "Evraz failed to provide its employees with a safe and healthful workplace. The hazards uncovered during this investigation are well recognized in the industry."

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed 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.

(Sourced from www.denverpost.com)