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OSHA Cites Alliance Laundry Systems

Agency identifies ‘willful’ safety violation; Alliance disputes characterization

RIPON, Wis. — On Dec. 6, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration proposed penalties of $124,709 to Alliance Laundry Systems after the agency’s investigation of a July 20 workplace injury identified one willful safety violation, OSHA reports. 

Inspectors found the Ripon-based company returned a hydraulic press to operation without adding safety guarding after a 65-year-old employee’s right middle fingertip was amputated as he lowered a press used to square parts for washing machines and dryers.

In a statement, Alliance says it disagrees with the characterization of the citation as “willful” and is contesting that classification. The company goes on to say it is confident that ultimately it will be proven that there is nothing willful about the case.

In addition, Alliance says, “We respect OSHA’s dedication to ensuring worker safety across the United States. We have and will continue to work closely with OSHA to resolve any issues around this particular incident and will immediately implement any actions they deem necessary to prevent future occurrences.”

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