LOCKPORT, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration filed XPO Logistics, a Lockport company, nearly $13,000 for a deadly workplace accident in June.
XPO Logistics was fined for this "serious" violation under the standard for 'handling materials.' The statute says:
"Storage of material shall not create a hazard. Bags, containers, bundles, etc., stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, interlocked and limited in height so that they are stable and secure against sliding or collapse."
Two men, employees of XPO Logistics, were crushed to death on June 25.
According to the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, the employees, 38-year-old Christopher Klosin of Barker and 62-year-old Roger Mangine of Newfane were unloading slabs of Corian from a truck at the facility on I.D.A. Park Drive.
At one point, 11 slabs - each weighing about 800 pounds - collapsed on them. The men were pronounced dead at the scene.
XPO Logistics released the following statement regarding the accident:
“We’re saddened to report that a tragic accident occurred this morning at our facility in Lockport, NY that resulted in the death of two of our colleagues. We’re working with our safety team and local law enforcement to understand the circumstances under which this tragedy occurred. Our deepest sympathies are with their families and our Lockport team members.”
Despite the fine, OSHA has not closed this case just yet. Violations, they say, could be added or deleted.
