Department of Labor Cites Ecore for Violations in Texas Plant
Austin, TX, July 16, 2024-“An inspection of Ecore International Inc’s Mexia plant by the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration in January 2024 found more than a dozen safety and health violations,” reports the U.S. Department of Labor. “Investigators discovered the company made employees stand on a forklift’s elevated tines to reach work areas; failed to prevent small fires fueled by improper buildup of combustible dust and permitted potentially explosive atmospheres to exist; lacked safe areas for welding; exposed employees to slip, trip and fall hazards; allowed untrained workers to operate forklifts; and failed to ensure machines had required safety guards.
“OSHA issued Ecore International citations for one willful violation and 15 serious violations. The company faces $299,591 in proposed penalties.
“In a separate investigation in May 2024 at a new Ecore facility in Ozark, Alabama, OSHA found similar machine guard hazards unchecked and employees exposed to potential electrocution and amputation dangers.
“Founded in 1871 and based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Ecore International Inc. consists of the EcoSurfaces, Surface America, A-Turf and SpectraTurf companies, serving customers in more than 75 countries in the healthcare, hospitality, education, retail, wellness, sports and fitness industries.
“Ecore International Inc. has 15 business days from receipt of citation 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.”