Federal authorities have proposed $148,000 in fines against a Fairbury fertilizer producer, alleging the company's handling of hazardous chemicals violated federal safety regulations.

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration says it has cited Loveland Products Inc. for 25 safety violations, including failing to follow up on compliance audit findings.

Loveland plant manager Michael Moritz says the violations were found shortly after the Fairbury plant was bought by another company.

Moritz says Loveland's owners are committed to making sure the Fairbury plant complies with OSHA rules, so employees will be safe.

The company plans to request a conference with OSHA to discuss its efforts to improve operations in Fairbury and whether the agency will consider reducing the fines.