Partial Amputation of Fingers Results in $50,050 Fine

A worker was trimming aluminum step covers using a hydraulic shear. To complete this task, he was instructed to remove a guard designed to prevent contact with the shear’s blade. His left hand came into contact with the blade, resulting in the partial amputation of four fingers. His employer pleaded guilty to failing to ensure that the worker was adequately trained to operate the hydraulic shear safely and was fined $50,050 [Norbert’s Manufacturing Ltd., Govt. News Release, Oct. 22, 2014].