Welcome back everybody for another episode of companies behaving badly.  This is one of those reoccurring topics on my blog where I hope one day there will nothing to share, but unfortunately that is not yet the case.  So strap on your headgear, safety glasses and ear plugs and buckle your seatbelt cause….. here we GO!

Houston-based Piping Technology and Products Inc. cited by OSHA for exposing workers to amputation hazards – PREVENTABLE – Isn’t that a nice caring company?  Hey we need two fingers of pipe over here.  No one can force you in a position where you can be severely injured.  If a machine is missing the proper guards and they tell you, they’re being repaired, it’s o.k. to operate this time, DON’T.  If you get injured, they’ll through YOU to the wolves.

Federal investigators reviewing reported safety violations at Belmont warehouse – PREVENTABLE – The sprinkler system was never activated by the fire.  There are reasons that would cause this to happen like not having it repaired.  Sprinkler systems should be inspected by a professional at least once a year and any issues should be addressed immediately.

Workplace safety group details deaths of bridge workers – PREVENTABLE – It’s a shame the State of Tennessee doesn’t think human life is worth much.  Four workers killed in four separate incidents and the company was only fined $31,000.  Lack of training is the reason cited in most incidents and from what I read, lack of caring on the companies part is also a problem.

Safety violations at Lavington mill – PREVENTABLE – Again, machinery operated without proper guards.  Nothing to get employee engagement going like the threat of injury or death while just trying to do your job.  They also operated a conveyor to the chipper without guards or an emergency stop.  Unfortunately just over 6 months after the WSBC report was issued an employee still lost his life.

Safety board raps ‘patchwork’ regulations in Texas blast – BE AWARE – I know I usually focus on companies, but it’s also a rare opportunity when a state gets the attention.  Texas has been making a big marketing push to attract and bring new businesses to their great state.  Obviously one of the attractions for out of state companies must be saving money by not having to conform to safety laws.  So when your company tells you they’re relocating to Texas, make sure your life insurance is up to date.

That wraps up this edition.  Remember, no matter what kind of safety program your company uses, it all comes down to YOU.  Don’t be reckless, always use available PPE, always be aware of your surroundings and what’s going on.  Work safe and become a safety advocate.  Be part of the safety discussion at your place of work through safety committees and meetings.