Valve Company Cited For Exposing Employees To Lead, Copper Dust

PRAIRIE DU SAC, WI – A Wisconsin company has been fined by OSHA after investigators say the company exposed employees to excessive levels of lead and copper dust.

OSHA has cited Milwaukee Valve Company Inc., based in Prairie du Sac, for exposing employees to lead and copper dust at rates higher than allowable exposure levels, officials say. OSHA officials say they've issued $171,628 in penalties to the industrial valve manufacturing company.

According to a news release, following a July 2019 inspection, OSHA cited the company for failing to reduce employee exposure to lead, and train foundry employees on the hazards of lead and cadmium exposure. OSHA also cited the company for violations related to respiratory protection, and walking and working surfaces.

"Chronic exposures to lead, copper and other metal dusts can result in long-term health issues, such as lung and nervous system damage," said OSHA Madison Area Director Chad Greenwood in the release. "Employers must provide personal protective equipment to employees working with toxic metals, and take appropriate steps to minimize worker exposure."

As part of OSHA's policy, the company has 15 business days to fix the problems, request an informal conference with OSHA officials, or contest the findings before an independent review commission.