The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration Thursday released its findings from an investigation into a deadly Pennsylvania candy factory explosion, faulting the company for failing to evacuate the building after workers reported smelling gas.
Seven workers were killed in the March 24 explosion caused by a natural gas leak at the R.M. Palmer Co. plant in West Reading.
OSHA cited the company under its general duty clause for not evacuating employees and for failing to clearly mark emergency exits. The agency proposed $44,483 in penalties.
“The company could have prevented this horrific tragedy by following required safety procedures,” Kevin T. Chambers, OSHA area director in Harrisburg, said in a statement.
The company has 15 business days to contest the citation and penalties.