AMHERST, MA — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) fined a local company $48,000 for safety violations that led to a death of one of its workers last year.

An employee of the company died after getting caught in the rotating parts of a mulching machine while trying to clear a jam. OSHA's inspection found that the company allowed employees to clear jams while the machinery was operating, in contravention of safety regulations.

"This case provides the starkest example of what can happen when safe work practices are not followed," said Mary Hoye, OSHA's area director for Central and Western Massachusetts.

"OSHA fines landscaper," The Republican, May 4, 2006.