U.S. Department of Labor inspectors have found that G&S Metal Products Co., a Cleveland-based bakeware manufacturer, failed to prevent two separate incidents resulting in worker amputations due to unguarded machinery. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) investigated the cases and determined that the company did not implement adequate machine guarding or enforce essential safety protocols such as lockout/tagout procedures. Additionally, there was a lack of effective employee training in machine safety.
The first incident occurred on June 25, 2024, involving a 37-year-old employee who suffered an amputation injury while servicing a power press. The unexpected cycling of the press exposed the worker to hazardous moving parts, and it was discovered that the pullbacks were not properly secured.
A second incident happened on July 11, 2024, when a 64-year-old worker with only four months on the job experienced an amputation while clearing scrap from another mechanical power press. This machine closed without warning due to inadequate guarding and lack of proper lockout during maintenance.
As a result of these findings, OSHA cited G&S Metal Products Company Inc. for one willful violation and five serious violations, proposing penalties amounting to $182,293.
"These two workers must live with permanent injuries because their employer failed to ensure that adequate guarding was in place," stated OSHA Area Director Howard Eberts in Cleveland. "G&S Metal Products Co. Inc. must take immediate action to evaluate and address machine safety across its operations. Employers have an obligation to adhere to basic safety standards to ensure every worker returns home safely."
In addition, G&S Metal Products had previously been cited in 2017 after another worker suffered amputation injuries under similar circumstances while adjusting a mechanical power press.
Founded in 1949, G&S Metal Products Co., Inc. produces commercial and consumer bakeware pans along with kitchen gadgets and accessories distributed globally.
The company now has 15 business days from receiving its citations and penalties either to comply with them, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
