A transmission repair shop is facing a proposed fine of nearly $80,000 for failing to correct a Georgia work safety hazard involving the use of compressed air at a Newnan facility, according to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration.

Unfortunately, it is not unusual for an employer to not correct a known safety hazard. Our Georgia workers’ compensation lawyers deal with such issues on a regular basis. Investigating past violations can help prove a dangerous condition led to a work accident and may even assist in proving a third-party liability claim.In this case OSHA reports initially flagging the hazard involving compressed air during a February 2010 inspection. Follow-up inspections conducted in July and September revealed the company never corrected the violation. A health-related failure-to-abate notice has been issued after it was determined that the company failed to require employees to use protective gloves when handling chemicals.

As we reported earlier this year on our Georgia Workers Compensation Attorney Blog, exposure to hazardous chemicals is a leading cause of work accidents in Atlanta and elsewhere in Georgia.

“Although OSHA staff pointed out deficiencies during previous inspections and management agreed to correct them, the company failed to follow through on its responsibilities,” said Andre Richards, director of OSHA’s Atlanta-West Area Office.

OSHA issued one repeat citation for $15,000 and two serious violations with a $6,000 penalty for safety violations. The company is also accused of hazards associated with lockout/tagout and electrical hazards as well as failure to certify industrial truck operators.

The Atlanta work accident lawyers at the Law Offices of J. Franklin Burns, P.C., offer a free and confidential appointment to discuss your rights, call 678-298-0323.