Manufacturer Fined $75,000 After Bar Falls from Crane & Strikes Worker

A worker employed by an automotive parts manufacturer was operating a remote-controlled overhead crane to lift and move a stamping die, which was resting on a large rectangular bolster plate that was enclosed on its long ends by two transfer bars. As the die was being lifted from the plate, it swung and struck one of the transfer bars, causing the bar to fall. The bar struck the worker, causing critical injuries. The MOL concluded that the manufacturer had failed to ensure that the lifting, carrying and moving of the stamping die was done in such a way and with such precautions and safeguards so as to ensure that the movement didn’t endanger the safety of any worker. The manufacturer pleaded guilty and was fined $75,000 [Martinrea International Inc., Govt. News Release, March 15, 2017].