A manufacturer of custom-sized resin balls used as flotation devices in the petroleum and fracking industries failed to protect its employees from the risk of death or serious injury from potential fires, explosions and other hazards by not providing and using mandatory safeguards. Officials from OSHA began inspecting the plant in October 2014, in response to complaints. Inspectors identified 48 violations of workplace safety and health standards, resulting in $105,200 in proposed fines. The ball manufacturing process requires the storage and use of up to 1,900 pounds of a flammable formaldehyde solution. In addition, inspectors found the presence of combustible resin dust; flammable liquids improperly stored and transferred; no audible fire alarm and fire-suppression system; and locked and obstructed exit routes.