Keeping work areas clean and equipment properly maintained isn’t just good practice – it can prevent serious incidents. In July 2025, a worker at Horizon Biofuels’ Fremont facility in Nebraska was fatally injured in an explosion. OSHA’s investigation found that dust had built up in the plant, equipment wasn’t properly protected from sparks, and employees working at heights greater than four feet lacked fall protection. The company was cited for these safety violations, with proposed penalties of $147,542.
This serves as an important reminder for all workplaces that regular cleaning, proper equipment maintenance, controlling ignition sources, and using the right safety gear are essential steps to protect employees. Guidance and free resources on OSHA’s combustible dust webpage. Safety isn’t optional – it can save lives.
McCraren Compliance offers comprehensive safety training to help prevent accidents. Visit our class calendar to see how our training and consulting services can enhance your safety efforts.
Original article published by OSHA