OSHA Inspection: CABLE ONE INC.

Issued

Mar 30, 2022

Abate by

Apr 25, 2022

Penalty

Initial $14,502 · Current $14,502

General-duty citation text

OSH ACT of 1970 Section (5)(a)(1): Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: 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 in that employees were exposed to a caught between hazard while attempting to pull a Ditch Witch 410SX, 4-wheel drive, Product ID #CMWZ410DT70000023, out of the mud:    The employer is failing to prevent employee exposure to caught in-between hazards.  On or about 11/1/2021, the employer failed to ensure that employees operated the Ditch Witch 410SX in proximity sufficient to prevent against caught in-between conditions.  The ground was being prepped for new home construction, an area of wet, soggy, and muddy ground conditions from recent rains when the trencher got stuck.  Two employees stepped up on the machine while the trench blade and auger controls remained active and attempted to counterbalance the front of the machine.  One employee fell and lost his balance, accidentally struck the joystick controller, and activated the trench blade and auger.  The 2nd worker slipped, and his right foot was caught in the rotating auger.  Acceptable and feasible abatement for this item may include and in order of preference:   1)	Review and follow the Operator's Manual for the 410SX, page 56: a. Clear the area around the machine of all bystanders b. Ensure all controls and switches to the neutral or disengaged position c. The first WARNING states to keep everyone at least 10 feet from the machine, attachments, and their range of movement.  d. How to help avoid injuries, specifically, to use attachments or counterweights to make the loads balance. 2)	Have the operator's manual on hand.  Be familiar with the safety warnings and notice.  This will help identify proper operations, troubleshooting and safety concerns so they can be evaluated and acted upon in a timely manner. 3)	Review and follow the Operators Manual for the 410SX, page 44: Discusses a WARNING - Runaway possible and to start and operate from the operator's position only.