Detroit Company Fined $168,700 By OSHA For Worker Death

Detroit-based Nicholson Terminal & Dock Co. is being $168,700 by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for a 2013 incident which resulted in the death of a worker.

On November 19, 2013, a worker stationed at the company's marine terminal was struck and killed by a 62,000-pound forklift carrying nearly 40,000 pounds of steel.

Following the deadly incident, OSHA officials immediately launched an investigation to determine exactly what caused the worker's death. According to OSHA's complaint, Nicholson Terminal & Dock Co. failed to obtain approval by the forklift's manufacturer before modifying it. OSHA also cited the company for failing to establish travel routes for forklifts, heavy machines and pedestrians.

Both of the previously mentioned citations were considered willful violations, meaning they were committed with intentional knowledge and/or voluntary disregard for the law.

In addition, seven other citations were handed down to Nicholson Terminal & Dock Co., five of which involved forklift safety. OSHA claims the company did not properly train workers on how to operate the forklifts; how to use the horn when visibility was obstructed; proper maintenance and upkeep of forklifts; and they did not provide clear instructions regarding warnings and safety systems.

Non-forklift related citations included failure to inspect cranes on a routine basis and failure to test the load capacity of cargo gear.

"Nicholson Terminal & Dock Co. has a responsibility to train its workers in the safe operation of dangerous equipment, and a worker tragically lost his life because this company failed to live up to that responsibility. A worker’s life should never be the cost of doing business," said Larry Johnson, area director for OSHA.

As a result of these violations, OSHA has fined Nicholson Terminal & Dock Co. $168,700. There's been no word yet on whether the company will comply or contest the fine.

Forklift Safety Tips:

• Forklifts should only be used by certified, qualified individuals.
• High-visibility clothing and/or jackets should be worn by forklift operators at all times.
• Establish travel paths designated specifically for forklifts.
• Examine the forklift and its respective equipment before use.
• Take turns slowly to reduce the risk of turning over.
• Use extra caution when operating a forklift in wet conditions.
• Only operate a forklift is the load is even and stable.
• Keep a watchful eye out for pedestrians.
• Under no circumstances should another worker "catch a ride" by hanging onto the side of a forklift.
• Secure large, awkward loads with ropes and tie-downs.