PPG fined $92,642 for safety violations

WESTLAKE, La. (AP) - Federal regulators have fined PPG Industries in Westlake $92,642 for nine “serious” safety violations.

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration says the violations include failing to monitor air in confined areas, not inspecting piping safety relief valves and allowing equipment to be used without safety guards.

An employee complaint sparked the investigation on April 11. OSHA’s area director in Baton Rouge, Dorinda Folse, tells The American Press (https://bit.ly/1HTL0c3 ) the lack of valve inspection was particularly dangerous.

PPG has until Oct. 26 to contest the citations and must submit proof that it has fixed each issue by Oct. 28.

PPG’s Westlake facility treats silicas - a hard mineral found in rock - for use in industrial and consumer applications, such as tire manufacturing and footwear.

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Information from: American Press, https://www.americanpress.com