The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration said Monday that it cited a Texas metal refinishing company over various respiratory health and safety hazards.
OSHA cited Houston-based Outdoor Furniture Refinishing Inc., operating as Allied Powder Coating, for 39 “serious” violations and five “other-than-serious” violations and proposed $338,094 in penalties following a December 2023 workplace investigation.
The company exposed employees to hazards that could lead to respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancer and other health issues, OSHA said.
The agency said Outdoor Furniture failed to use required engineering controls and respiratory protection to prevent health hazards related to exposure to triglycidyl isocyanurate, arsenic, cadmium beryllium and lead.
Unsafe levels of exposure to these chemicals can cause birth defects, may lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and could lead to the development of skin lesions and cognitive impairment, OSHA said. Beryllium exposure can cause permanent lung tissue scarring.
The “other-than-serious” violations were for failing to evaluate and certify forklift operators and not providing easily accessible fire extinguishers.
Outdoor Furniture, which offers metal refinishing services for industrial, residential and commercial customers, has 15 business days to contest the citation and proposed penalties.