The U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has fined Massena, N.Y., based General Motors Powertrain Corp. $160,000 for widespread failure to record work-related hearing losses and other occupational injuries.

OSHA began its inspection on April 13 in response to an employee complaint. As a result of findings during the inspection, the company has been cited for alleged willful, serious and other violations of health and safety standards.

"Strong enforcement is a key part of this Administration's efforts to reduce workplace injuries and illnesses," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "The significant penalty of $160,000 in this case demonstrates our commitment to protecting the health and safety of American workers."

OSHA's inspection identified 98 instances where the company failed to record (on the OSHA 300 Log) work-related noise-induced hearing losses and other injuries and illnesses suffered by employees at the plant. Accurate recordkeeping is essential for protecting workers since it provides the opportunity for timely identification and correction of conditions that can harm workers.

The Massena plant's failure to record work-related injuries led to the issuance of two willful citations, carrying $140,000 in fines.

Six serious citations, with $12,000 in proposed fines, were issued for a variety of safety hazards including an obstructed exit route, inadequate guarding of moving machine parts, no load rating for an elevated work platform, failure to assess the need for personal protective equipment for workers, lack of warning signs and a non-exit door not marked as such.

An additional $8,000 in fines is proposed for two other citations concerning improper recording of injuries and illnesses on the OSHA 300 log of occupational illnesses and injuries.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and proposed penalties to either elect to comply with them, to request and participate in an informal conference with the OSHA area director, or to contest them before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

OSHA’s role is to assure the safety and health of American workers by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual improvement in workplace safety and health. Visit OSHA's website for more information.