OSHA Inspection: M.A.B. PAINTS, INC

Issued

Nov 3, 1992

Abate by

Dec 18, 1992

Penalty

Initial $3,750 · Current $2,600 Reduced

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 the hazards of being overcome by toxic and asphyxicant gases
and/or deficiency of oxygen while performing work inside tank(s):
a)  Sand, Grinding, Premix Area - Employee(s) required to enter
a 6' deep, 60 inch diameter cowler to scrape paint off inside of
tank were not provided with a written procedure which addresses
aspects of safe enty or training.  Observed 9/24/92
ABATEMENT NOTE:  Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable
abatement method to correct this hazard is to establish a confined
space entry program which would include at least the following
essentials:
1.  Prior to employee entry into the tank, employees designated
to perform this task shall be provided with training including
information concerning the nature of the hazards likely to be
symptoms and consquences of contaminant overexposure and oxygen
deficiency emergency entry and exit procedures, use of applicable
respirators, first aid, lockout procedures, safety equipment use
and in safe work practices.  Initial classroom training sessions
and rescue training drills shall be provided on at least an annual
basis to develop and maintain the proficiency of the employees at
performing confined space entry work.
2.   A permit system which provides written authorization to enter
the confined spaces and documents the location and type of work to
be done, evaluation of existing hazards including atmospheric test
readings, necessary protective equipment and measures.  The permit
shall be dated and carry an expiration time (usually for the shift
only).
3.   A program of atmospheric testing for oxygen deficiency,
flammable gases and vapors and other hazardous atmospheric
contaminants shall be completed by a qualified person using a
properly calibrated direct reading oxygen, combustible gas and
toxic gas indicator.  This testing shall be done throughout
accessible areas of the space and adjacent spaces and shall be
carried out prior to the entry of employees for work.
4.   Rescue procedures shall be specifically designed for each
entry.  There shall be a trained stand-by person assigned to that
confined space with a fully charged, positive pressure,
selfcontained
breathing apporatus (SCBA) at hand. Addititional duties
of the stand-by person are to maintain unobstructed life lines &
communications to any workers inside the space.  Under no
circumstances
will be stand-by person enter the confined space until
she/he is relieved and is assured that adequate assistance is
present.  However, while awaiting rescue personnel, the stand-by
person will make rescue attemps utilizing the life lines from the
outside of the space.  Rescue teams entering the confined space
stand-by person and required life lines.

Issued

Nov 3, 1992

Abate by

Nov 17, 1992

Penalty

Initial $1,500 · Current $25 Reduced