After an investigation by OSHA, a grain elevator business in Illinois was cited $205,106 and placed on the Severe Violator Enforcement Program for failing to provide safety protections to its employees. A worker suffered fatal injuries after falling into a grain bin at its Grant Park facility. OSHA cited the business for two willful and three serious violations. The agency found that the grain operator allowed employees to enter a grain bin by using a ladder with rungs spaced greater than 14 inches apart and without a body harness and lifeline; failed to provide rescue equipment, and exposed employees to engulfment hazards while walking down grain. OSHA also cited the company for failure to disconnect or lockout equipment, test atmospheric conditions, and post an observer prior to allowing employees to enter the storage bin.
