US Labor Department's OSHA cites Newark, NJ, company for exposing workers to safety and health hazards Company cited for violations involving diacetyl
NEWARK, N.J. – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Natural Flavors Inc. for 12 workplace safety and health violations at its Newark facility. OSHA began its inspection after receiving information that workers were potentially exposed to diacetyl, a chemical used in flavorings. Proposed penalties total $60,400.
The inspection confirmed that workers were overexposed to diacetyl, a serious violation that was cited with a $2,800 penalty. Studies have linked exposure to diacetyl to the development of permanent lung damage, including the rare lung disease bronchiolitis obliterans.
"As early as 2004, the flavoring manufacturing industry has been aware that its workers who are overexposed to diacetyl on the job have developed severe, life-threatening lung disease. It is outrageous that Natural Flavors would expose workers to this debilitating chemical without taking the necessary steps to properly assess exposure and protect its employees," said Robert D. Kulick, OSHA's regional administrator in New York.
..."The conditions OSHA cited jeopardize the safety and health of workers at this facility," said Kris Hoffman, director of OSHA's Parsippany Area Office. "It is critical that the company take immediate steps to abate these hazards."
Please read full OSHA Regional News Release at
http://1.usa.gov/1702ZuL
