OSHA Inspection: AGATE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.

Issued

Nov 15, 1988

Abate by

Nov 18, 1988

Penalty

Initial $1,000 · Current $1,000

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to
confined space hazards of oxygen deficiency and exposure to flammable
gases and vapors and/or toxic air contaminants:
a) Employees working inside a manhole located at the Intersection of
Little Egg Harbor and Curlew Rds, in Tuckerton Beach, N.J. during
sewer pipeline replacement operations on or about 9/6/88.
Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable method to correct this
hazard is to implement a confined space entry program containing but not
limited to the following provisions:
a) Pre-entry and periodic continous testing of the atmosphere for
sufficient oxygen content and atmospheric testing for flammable and/
or toxic gasses, vapors and/or fumes determined by conditions
anticipated and by the nature of the work to be performed.
b) The space must be cleaned and flushed or purged of hazardous material
to the extent partical.
c) A system for positive ventilation shall be provided prior to and
during the entire entry period through the use of fans, portovents,
air movers or by adequate natural drafts.
d) Any person entering a confined space must be fitted with a safety
harness and lifeline and the lifeline must be secured outside the
entrance.
e) A second person shall be available at the area entrance and in
sight of the person inside at all times.  He shall be equipped with
proper safety equipment and adequate communication equipment to
summon help in an emergency.
f)  Self - contained breathing apparatus or supplied air respirators
must be available at the vessel entrance and these devices must
be used if testing reveals a hazardous atmosphere in the confined
space.
g)  Where entry into the confined space is through the top opening, a
hoisting device or other effective means must be provided to lift
employees out of the space in emergency situations.

Issued

Nov 15, 1988

Abate by

Nov 18, 1988

Penalty

Initial $1,000 · Current $1,000