Spincraft, a company in North Billerica, Massachusetts, was cited by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for numerous serious workplace safety violations. The inspection of Spincraft was brought forth upon discovery of a serious eye injury to one of its workers while operating a portable grinder. It was discovered that the portable hand tool did not have the proper guard installed nor was instruction given for safe operating speed. OSHA’s guidelines and procedures are expressly written for this type of avoidable injury.

Upon inspection of the rest of the plant uncovered 32 other serious safety violations resulting in $173,000 in proposed fines. Serious violations are classified as those that have great potential for serious injury or death. These violations include the following:

  • Blocked emergency exits
  • Electrical hazards
  • Open floors and platforms
  • Failure to inspect cranes, including ropes and switches
  • Ladderway openings
  • Improper propane storage
  • No hazard communication training


In addition to the serious violations listed above, other violations resulting in $2500 in proposed fines include a number of lesser electrical and mechanical hazards. While lesser infractions, failure to comply with all safety measures can result in injury falls, slips, electrical shock and difficulty exiting building should an emergency arise.

OSHA sets forth guidelines to not only protect workers from death and serious injury but also helps employers by providing comprehensive guidelines so that the safest, most effective work environment can be achieved.


Modern Business Associates is an HR company that focuses on payroll and HR outsourcing. We routinely work with clients regarding OSHA compliance and preventive safety measures. As a Professional Payroll and HR outsource organization, our clients rely on us to help them effectively deal with these kinds of topics.