OSHA Inspection: KIMBLE GLASS CO. INC.

Issued

Dec 26, 1991

Abate by

Feb 26, 1992

Penalty

Initial $2,250 · Current $2,250

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 hazard of excessive heat stress:
%%
a) Tube Alley, Hot End - Tank tenders were exposed to the
hazard of high temperature levels while charging J, M & R
tanks.  Twenty four individual WIBGET temperature readings were
determined during charging activities.  Values ranged from 34.2 C.
to 45.0 C with the average temperature being 38.7 C.  The ACGIH
permissible heat exposure threshold limit value for moderate 50%
work is 29.4 C.  All twenty four determinations exceeded this
level.  On or about 8/15/91.  The employer did not have a Heat
Stress Training Program.
%%
b) Tube Alley Hot End - Mechanic cleaning burners on
R tank was exposed to WIBGET temperature levels
of 49.8 C, 52.4 C, and 48.8 C.  The ACGIH Permissible
Heat Exposure Threshold Limit Value for Moderate
25% work is 31.1 C.  All three determinations
exceeded this level.  On or about 9/6/92.  The
mechanic did not have any heat stress training.
%%
c) Tube Alley - Hot End - Hot Crew Mechanics
were exposed to high temperature levels while
cleaning the flue of R Furnace.  Six WIBGET
readings taken during the cleaning process were 45.0 C,
45.0 C, 45.5 C, 46.8 C, 46.3 C, and 46.4 C.  The ACGIH
Permissible Heat Exposure Threshold Limit for moderate
50% work is 29.4 C.  All six values exceeded this level.
On or about 9/6/91.  Employees had not received any
heat stress training.
%%
Such conditions of exposure, personal protective equipment and type
of work being performed can lead to the development of serious heat
induced illness: heat stroke, heat exhaustion, cramps and
behavioral disorders.
%%
Some feasible and acceptable abatement methods, among others, to
correct the hazards are:
%%
1) Conduct periodic Wet Bulb Globe Temperature index
(WBGT) measurements to assess potential heat stress
hazards.
2) Develop and implement a written Heat Stress Management
and Training Program addressing: Acclimatization; fluid
replacement; administrative and work practices.
3) Use of cooling garments.
4) Provision of adequate fluids.
5) Improved cooling in the operator "break room".
6) Additional fans.
7) Improve maintenance on the monorail system to
eliminate manual pushing of the cars.
%%