OSHA Inspection: EQUITY GROUP, PENNSYLVANIA DIVISION

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

May 5, 1990

Penalty

Initial $360 · Current $180 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 severe physical harm to employees in that employees were potentially
exposed to oxygen deficient atmospheres created by the use and release
of nitrogen and carbon dioxide and nitrogen cryogenic liquids used in
the freezing and chilling processes respectively:
a) Hamburger patty production and grinding areas: employees involved in
processing and packaging operations were exposed to potential oxygen
deficient atmospheres through the use of carbon dioxide and nitrogen
cryogenic liquids, whereby these liquids produce large volumes of gas
which may displace oxygen availability necessary for lift support. A
comprehensive formalized emergency detection, response and evacuation
and rescue program had not been developed and implemented in case of
oxygen deficiency. Carbon dioxide and nitrogen gases are odorless,
colorless, and tasteless and asphyxiation may occur suddenly or
develop slowly wihtout employee awareness. Observed 1/18/90.
Abatement Note: Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable method
to correct this hazard is to:
1) Provide improved oxygen monitoring throughout production areas
through installation of additional monitoring points.
2) Installation of an oxygen warning alarm to indicate when area
concentrations fall below 19.5%.
3) Perform scheduled periodic maintenance and measurements of existing
ventilation systems to ensure proper air flow and capacity.
Consideration as to an automated device to activate dilution
ventilation system upon an oxygen deficiency should be performed.
4) Institute a formal procedure (schedule) or mechanism to regularly
check and record oxygen levels.
5) Ensure that periodic oxygen monitoring calibration is performed.
IAW Manufacturers directions using ambient (fresh) air or a
calibration gas which is specifically 20.8% oxygen content.
6) Development and implementation of a formal written emergency response
and evacuation/rescue program for situations involving oxygen-
deficient atmospheres including responsibilities, use of rescue
equipment such as self-contained breathing apparatus, notification,
and periodic emergency drills.
7) Ensure all employees are informed of potential hazards and precaution
associated with oxygen deficient atmospheres, properties of cryogenic
liquids/gases, and emergency response/evacuation requirements in case
rements in case of leaks or system failures.
8) Ensure that the carbon dioxide monitoring system is provided with
adequate support equipment to maintain opertional capability at all
times.
Reference: Compressed Gas Association Publication CGA P-12 (1987)
involving safe handling of cryogenic liquids.

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

Apr 5, 1990

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

May 5, 1990

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

May 5, 1990

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

Apr 18, 1990

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

Apr 18, 1990

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

May 2, 1990

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

Apr 6, 1990

Issued

Mar 30, 1990

Abate by

Apr 11, 1990