OSHA proposes $64,528 fine for safety violations in fatal accident at De Pere company

DE PERE (WLUK) – OSHA proposed $64,528 in fines for a series of safety violations at Robinson Inc., including an incident where a worker died.

The death happened Nov. 30 at the metal fabrication company, 1740 Eisenhower Road. An obituary says Russell Norman, 51, died Dec. 8 "as a result of injuries sustained in an industrial accident."

A $16,131 penalty was issued for that violation, which is categorized as a “serious” violation.

“On or about November 30, 2023, the employer did not protect employees from the point of operation and struck-by hazards on the Amada LC4020F1NT CO2 laser (L2) machine. The machine was operated with the doors open exposing employees to struck-by and crushed-by hazards,” the OSHA website states.

Norman's obituary states he worked at Robinson Inc. for 34 years. "He was an outstanding welder and machine/laser operator," the obituary reads.

Other violations were for use of an unsecured ladder, an employee fall, machinery without proper safety guards, an overpressurized compressed air gun, and improper extension cord use.