OSHA Fines Nebraska Manufacturer $148K Over Fatal Explosion

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited Horizon Biofuels Inc., a manufacturer of fuel pellets, for willful and serious safety violations after a deadly explosion at the company’s Fremont, Nebraska facility in July 2025.

An investigation was initiated on July 29, 2025, following the explosion that caused fatal injuries to a worker. OSHA cited Horizon Biofuels for violations including combustible dust buildup, failure to ensure equipment within the facility was protected from creating an ignition source and lack of fall protection for employees working at heights greater than four feet.

The citations carry $147,542 in proposed penalties.

Source: Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Topics
Workers’ Compensation
Manufacturing