Ohio Company Fined $130k by OSHA

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed $130,200 in fines against Novis Marine Ltd., a yacht design and fabrication company in Fairport Harbor, for alleged willful, serious and repeat violations of federal workplace safety standards.

OSHA's investigation, opened in August 2008, resulted in one willful citation for fall hazards associated with open-sided floors and platforms, 23 alleged serious violations involving electrical and fire hazards, lack of personal protective equipment and stair railings, machine guarding and training deficiencies. Repeat violations involved a lack of explosion proof equipment in paint spray booths and other potential fire hazards.

"Failing to practice required OSHA safety and health standards is detrimental to the welfare of American workers," said Rob Medlock, director of OSHA's area office in Cleveland, Ohio. "Any employer who is committed to providing a safe place of work can avoid employee injuries and fatalities by following OSHA's regulations."

Novis Marine Ltd. designs and constructs yachts and sailboat spars for various brands. The company has been inspected by OSHA numerous times since 1995 and has been cited for a variety of safety and health violations.