OSHA Cites Ohio Ammunition Company Following Deadly Fire, Explosion

An Ohio ammunition company cited by OSHA for 19 health and safety violations stemming from a fatal July 2019 factory explosion faces a potential fine of $211,768.

The explosion at Midwest Ammunition left one worker dead and another seriously injured, an Occupational Safety and Health Administration press release states.

OSHA inspectors determined that the brass ammunition recycle company failed to remove bins of waste ammunition powder from the sorting department before allowing employees to perform maintenance work.

The company also failed to take adequate precautions to prevent the ignition of flammable vapors, separate small arms ammunition from flammable materials by at least 25 feet, or install a fire-resistant wall; allowed the use of a gas-powered forklift in an atmosphere with flammable materials; and failed to develop, implement and train employees on emergency action and fire prevention plans.

Other violations included exposing employees to lead; failing to implement a respiratory protection program, adequately guard operating machine parts, and ensure employees were provided and wore eye protection; and several electrical safety violations.

“This tragic outcome could have been avoided by following safety guidelines and ensuring flammable and explosive materials were not exposed to potential ignition sources,” said OSHA Cincinnati Area Director Ken Montgomery. “OSHA regulations and industry standards require companies to develop and implement safety and health programs that address specific hazards and processes used in their facilities.”

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.