The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 established that employers needed to provide a safe and healthful workplace, free of all known dangers, for employees. This act also established the Occupational Health and Safety Administration, which oversees workplace safety and accidents. In addition to requiring a safe workplace, the act also provides access for workers to report workplace accidents and make requests for a workplace to be inspected. The agency also provides safety training to workers and employers alike. They have the authority to fine companies who are found violating safety rules and regulations.
Fox News reports on a fine assessed by OSHA on Chili’s Restaurant after an employee fell into a vat of scalding water.
OSHA has reportedly fined Brinker, Florida, the parent company and subsidiary of Brinker International restaurants, $62,000 in fines after an employee at a Doral restaurant injured themselves falling into a vat of 185-degree water. The incident happened in October 2018.
In the report, OSHA specifically faulted the employer for failing to provide protection from a Cleveland OES-6.20 Combi Oven Steamer, along with a Frymaster FE155CSE Rethermalizer. The employee fell into the Rethermalizer, which is used to heat frozen or prepackaged foods.
The total penalties imposed by OSHA were $62,415, but Brinker Florida can appeal the fine.
The extent of the employee’s injuries was not immediately known.