Utility cited in chainsaw death

JOPLIN, Mo. -- A Missouri utility has been cited for two willful safety violations after a Kansas man was killed earlier this year by a chain saw that kicked back and cut him. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration on Thursday announced the citation and proposed penalties of $140,000 against Missouri-American Water Co. The case involves the May 16 death of Robert W. Clark, 40, of Baxter Springs, Kan., who was helping reroute underground water lines. OSHA cited the utility for failing to provide support in accordance with manufacturers' instructions and lack of training on pipe-cutting operations. Mid-American president Frank Kartmann said the company does not agree with the citation and plans to meet with OSHA to discuss the matter.