December 12, 2022

US Department of Labor finds manufacturer exposed workers to machine,
other hazards at Kewaunee, Wisconsin, facility

OSHA cites Kewaunee Fabrications for 12 violations, proposes $250K in fines

KEWAUNEE, WI – Federal safety inspectors have determined that a falling load from a below-the-hook magnet crushed the leg of an employee at a Kewaunee heavy fabrication manufacturing company on June 7, 2022.

In response to a hospitalization reported by the worker's employer, Kewaunee Fabrications LLC, investigators with the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration found workers were exposed to an unguarded machine point of operation that did not prevent workers from having their hand in the danger zone while straightening parts.

OSHA issued citations to the company for one willful and 11 serious safety violations, and proposed $250,696 in penalties. Kewaunee Fabrications manufactures aerial ladders and mounting plates primarily used for fire trucks.

"Kewaunee Fabrications is taking this incident seriously. During OSHA's inspection, the company's safety representatives documented issues to improve their procedures and ensure compliance," said OSHA's Area Director Robert Bonack in Appleton, Wisconsin. "Manufacturers must constantly review their safety procedures and equipment to ensure all points of operations are guarded, equipment is in safe working condition and workers are trained to recognize hazards."

OSHA's machine guarding and control of hazardous energy webpages provide information on what employers must do to limit worker exposure to machine hazards.

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 and Health Review Commission.

Learn more about OSHA.

Media Contacts:

Scott Allen, 312-353-4727, allen.scott@dol.gov
Rhonda Burke, 312-353-4807, burke.rhonda@dol.gov

Release Number: 22-2294-CHI