Federal regulators have fined Behr Iron and Metal nearly half a million dollars after a worker's death earlier this year at a South Beloit recycling facility. According to a news release from the U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA officials cited the company for one serious and seven willful violations.
The victim was a 37-year old immigrant. The worker suffered multiple injuries after his arm was caught in a conveyor belt on March 10.
The administration says at least three other workers were also exposed to dangerous, unguarded machines during cleaning operations. OSHA proposed penalties of $497,000 dollars and placed the company in its Severe Violator Enforcement Program.
The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety & Health Review Commission.
