E-scrap Processor URT Settles OSHA Violations with Reduced Fine

URT, an electronic scrap processor, has agreed to pay a reduced fine of $129,000 for violating workplace safety regulations related to lead and cadmium exposure during the processing of cathode ray tube devices. The company’s facility in Janesville, Wisconsin was found to have inadequate engineering controls and accumulated lead and cadmium on surfaces, putting workers at risk.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) initially proposed a fine of $202,820 for the violations, which included two repeat violations, six serious violations, and one non-serious violation. However, after an informal settlement meeting between OSHA representatives and URT leaders, some citations were removed and others were reclassified, resulting in the reduced fine.

The violations occurred during an inspection in April, which found that workers were exposed to lead and cadmium while dismantling cathode ray tubes. The company handles these devices by removing components for commodity recovery and sending the lead-bearing glass through a proprietary separation system.

As part of the settlement, OSHA dropped two citations, including a repeat citation for lead and cadmium exposure issues that were previously observed in 2023. Additionally, a repeat citation for airborne cadmium exposure was reclassified as serious, reducing the fine. The final fine total was $129,000, which is due in December and January.

URT President Ken Thomas stated that the adjustments reflect the company’s commitment to resolving the matter cooperatively and the significant safety improvements it has already made. The company remains focused on ensuring a safe working environment for its employees and is grateful for the opportunity to work with OSHA towards a positive resolution.