NAICS Code: 332710- Machine Shop

Number of employees: 120, On-site: 75

Exline, Inc. is a family-owned corporation that has been providing industrial repair and manufacturing services since 1872. Exline serves many industries with a focus in the energy sector, such as natural gas compression and power generation, and the industrial sector. After years of working to improve safety culture and programs, Exline was looking for help with continuous improvement, increased employee involvement, and recognition. The company heard about the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) Safety Consultation Program at a local safety networking event. KDOL Consultation performed its first visit on June 16, 2021.

The safety and health consultant found several hazards during the initial visit. Examples of hazards were power strips used to power appliances, an electrical panel having unused openings, a manlift missing hand control labels, a fan cord missing ground plugs, ladders missing labels, damaged fan guards, damaged web slings, forklift liquefied petroleum (LP) tank hazards, a lose bench grinder work rest, damaged extension cords, and grinding wheel hazards. Exline corrected all hazards. Examples of corrections were removing power strips, installing breaker filler plates, replacing labels on a lift, replacing a fan cord, repairing fan guards, and adding items to monthly inspections. The company also updated its safety and health management program. After the consultation visit, the company had a heightened awareness for hazard recognition.

Exline, Inc. was awarded Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) approval on June 8, 2022. SHARP acknowledges small and medium-sized businesses that have used OSHA On-Site Consultation Program services and operate exemplary workplace safety and health programs. Small businesses that achieve SHARP status receive a deferral from OSHA or the State Plan programmed inspections for the period that the SHARP designation is valid. Acceptance of a worksite into SHARP is an achievement that identifies the employer as a model for occupational safety and health among its business peers.

Over the years, Exline has continued to strive to improve workplace safety culture and implement engineering solutions that have resulted in a safer workplace, improved employee morale and retention, increased productivity, and decreased absenteeism. Reduced injuries and accidents have also led to increased opportunities with Exline’s industry customers and significant reduction in insurance and medical costs, improving the company’s profitability.

Companies interested in SHARP can contact their local OSHA On-Site Consultation program to discuss details and schedule an on-site safety and health evaluation. To locate the On-Site Consultation program nearest you, call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) or visit www.osha.gov/consultation.