OSHA announced Feb. 17 that it proposed $264,000 in fines against a Polson, Montana-based supplier of beekeeping supplies.
The agency investigated Western Bee Supply for a partial finger amputation incident and found numerous hazards in the process.
OSHA said investigators found a workplace with unguarded saw blades, rotating machinery, belts, pulleys and chains, along with a lack of lockout/tagout procedures.
The amputation wasn’t the only serious injury to occur — only the first one that had been reported to OSHA.
Along with the proposed fine, Western Bee was cited for a range of serious and willful violations.
The company signed an informal agreement accepting all citations as issued with a minor penalty reduction.
Western Bee Supply has made and supplied beekeeping equipment for more than 53 years. It has 49 employees.
