Nov. 1, 2017

NEW ALBANY, MS – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited Custom Nonwoven Inc., a subsidiary of Korea Synthetic Fiber, for willfully exposing its workers to multiple hazards. The New Albany-based company faces penalties of $220,544.

OSHA inspectors issued citations on Oct. 25, 2017, after it found the company exposed workers to unguarded machines; electrocution and burns from exposed electrical wires and control cabinets; and falls from walkways that were not equipped with guardrails. The company was cited for two willful, seven serious and five other-than-serious violations.

“The hazards this company was cited for are preventable,” said OSHA Acting Area Director Courtney Bohannon, in Jackson. “Following basic safety requirements can be the difference between workers returning home safely or suffering a severe injury or worse.”

The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and proposed 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.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education, and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.