OSHA Inspection: WEST TEXAS UTILITIES OKLAUNION POWER STATION

Issued

Aug 4, 1998

Abate by

Nov 3, 1998

Penalty

Initial $4,500 · Current $4,500

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 fall
hazards while entering and leaving the UZ-140A Bypass Damper.  Employees
used
a Louisville Model FS-1512 step ladder which had been set across the
bearing
housing of the damper.  The ladder rested on its bottom rung instead of the
feet, preventing secure footage.  In the event that the ladder should
break,
slip, or twist in position, employees could fall through the damper to the
lower duct area approximately 40 feet below.
AMONG OTHER METHODS , ONE FEASIBLE AND ACCEPTABLE ABATEMENT METHOD TO
CORRECT
THE HAZARD IS:
Provide a ladder which can be secured at the top and which does not rely on
secure footage at the bottom, or, design a system to provide secure footage
for a ladder in addition to securing the top.

Issued

Aug 4, 1998

Abate by

Nov 3, 1998

Penalty

Initial $4,500 · Current $4,500