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Region 5 News Release:   V-45
Friday, March 12, 1999
Contact: Robin Medlock
PHONE : (216) 522-3818

OSHA ISSUES CITATIONS TO RMI TITANIUM COMPANY, NILES, OHIO, FOR ALLEGED WORKPLACE SAFETY VIOLATIONS; PROPOSES PENALTIES TOTALING $159,500

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued citations alleging 57 safety violations to RMI Titanium Company, 1000 Warren Avenue, Niles, Ohio. The proposed penalties total $159,500.

According to Rob Medlock, OSHA's Area Director in Cleveland, a safety and health inspection was conducted between October 1998 and January 1999 after a worker filed a complaint. Although some large gaps in the safety program were found in the inspection, the company cooperated with OSHA and responded quickly to eliminate hazards.

Medlock said, "We were impressed by the amount and quality of corrective action taken during a difficult and hectic period at the company." He added, "We have been assured the company has adopted a more pro-active approach to their safety and health program."

The alleged serious violations included overhead, truck and jib cranes that were overloaded, had worn or missing components, and were not tested and inspected. OSHA also found deficient machine guards, fire exits, fire protection programs, emergency response program and electrical hazards. An alleged repeat violation addressed a live electrical box without a cover.

OSHA defines a serious violation as a hazardous condition in which there is a substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result and the employer knew or should have known of the hazard.

OSHA defines a repeat violation as a workplace condition substantially similar to one previously cited within the last three years.

RMI Titanium Company has 15 working days to contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

This information is available to sensory-impaired individuals upon request. Voice phone: (312) 353-6976; TDD Message Referral Phone: 1-800-800-4571.

This information will be made available to sensory-impaired individuals upon request. Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD). Telephone: (800) 927-9273.