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Thursday, April 24, 2008

State Inspectors Propose To Fine Las Cruces


Associated Press
      LAS CRUCES — State inspectors want to fine Las Cruces $27,450, alleging seven safety violations after a contract employee was killed at a city recycling center.
    The city can contest the findings or could avoid paying a fine by correcting the alleged violations before May 8.
    Jim Clark, 49, was killed Nov. 16 at the South Central Solid Waste Transfer and Recycling Facility while trying to clear a paper jam from a baler.
    Another employee, believing Clark was out, turned the baler on, according to a Las Cruces Police Department report. The employee told police the baler repeatedly jammed. The police report said power to the machine was not turned off and other safety procedures were not followed when Clark went inside.
    Inspectors for the state Occupational Health and Safety Bureau said Clark probably would not have been killed had recycling employees been trained in lockout procedures and working in confined spaces. Lockout procedures ensure power to a machine is cut off in certain circumstances.
    The Associated Press left a call Thursday seeking comment from Las Cruces attorney Matt Holt, who represents the city.

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