Zachry fined by OSHA in relation to industrial death

Published 4:06 pm Wednesday, August 28, 2024

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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has fined Zachry Industrial in connection with the February death of an employee.

Yukiko Nakao, 29, of Port Arthur died while working a skid steer in the industrial accident Feb. 16 at the Golden Triangle Polymers Company construction site in Orange.

OSHA cited Zachry this week for two violations assessing a fine of $16,131 each for a total of $32,262 in proposed penalties, according to information from OSHA.

Violation No., 1 labeled serious, states that on or about Feb. 16 employees working near a John Deer Model 331G Skid Steer were exposed to struck-by hazards from unintended movement when the floorboard of the skid steer was not kept clear.

There was a recommendation to keep the cab clean especially the pedal area and inspect the machine daily before starting to ensure pedals move freely.

Violation No. 2 labeled serious, states that on or about Feb. 16 the back-up alarm on the skid steer was not operable.