OSHA cites United Airlines for alleged workplace safety violations at Newark Liberty Airport

Federal officials say United Airlines repeatedly put workers at Newark Liberty International Airport in danger of being injured by falls or by falling objects and other workplace hazards.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced Tuesday that is has issued 16 citations against the carrier and has proposed penalties of $101,300 overall.

A message seeking comment from United was not immediately returned Tuesday morning.

OSHA said some of the citations are for repeat violations that were first cited in 2011.

The alleged hazards were discovered during a January inspection. They include failure to clearly mark exits inside areas where food service employees, baggage handlers and gate agents worked, and keeping unused openings closed on an electrical box where conduit or knockout plugs were located.

Other alleged violations include exposing aircraft mechanics to fall hazards while working from a ground support vehicle and struck-by hazards by storing materials on storage racks, which were damaged and not anchored.

United Airlines has 15 business days to respond to the workplace citations, by correcting the problems or paying the penalties. The carrier also can request an informal conference with OSHA's area director or contest the citations or penalties before the independent OSHA review commission.