The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited Hagatna, Guam-based Benson Guam Enterprises for exposing employees to struck-by hazards. The building materials distributor faces up to $16,575 in penalties after an employee suffered fatal injuries when several doors fell on him as he unloaded a shipping container.
According to a news release from the agency, OSHA cited the distributor for failing to secure stored materials to prevent accidental movement or shifting, for failing to provide a place of employment free from recognized hazards, and for failing to conduct performance evaluations of powered industrial truck operators at least every three years.
“This company’s failure to comply with materials handling and storage requirements led to this preventable tragedy,” OSHA Honolulu are office director Roger Forstner said. “Following safety procedures is essential for protecting employees.”
Benson Guam Enterprises has 15 days from the receipt of the OSHA citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with their OSHA area director, or contest the findings.
