Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard:

OSH ACT of 1970 Section (5)(a)(1):The employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees. At a worksite located at 603 N Main Street, Mount Vernon, MO 65712, employees were exposed to the recognized struck-by or caught-in hazards created by operating a Grasshopper 725G2 riding mower that had been modified to prevent the motor from stopping or the mower deck from disengaging when the operator left the operator's seat. The employer owned a Grasshopper 725G2 riding mower with a modified operator-presence safety system. On June 17, 2025, a maintenance employee operated the mower while mowing the employer's property. The employee left the seat of the mower and was struck by the mower while it continued to run, resulting in the employee's death. AMONG OTHER METHODS, FEASIBLE AND ACCEPTABLE METHODS TO CORRECT THIS HAZARD INCLUDE: 1. Establish documented and enforceable rules prohibiting employees from bypassing manufacturer provided safety devices and/or operating mowers when a safety switch has been bypassed or rendered ineffective. 2. Keep all safety devices, including a seat safety switch, in place in accordance with the Grasshopper Operator Manual. 3. Visually inspect all parts and components for proper working conditions prior to each use, per Grasshopper In-Season Maintenance instructions. Replace worn or damaged parts before operating. Adjust loose bolts, nuts and other components. Confirm all safety features are installed and functioning properly.