OSHA Inspection: CNG TRANSMISSION CORPORATION

Issued

Nov 30, 1992

Abate by

Dec 14, 1992

Penalty

Initial $2,000 · Current $2,000

Issued

Nov 30, 1992

Abate by

Dec 14, 1992

Penalty

Initial $70,000 · Current $7,000 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:
a)  Where an inoperable fluid level gauge necessitated that
employees manually gauge the level of the liquid in Unit
Number 391 fracturing tank, the absence of implemented
procedures and training for entering and working or
effecting a rescue in a confine space exposed workers
to an oxygen deficient atmosphere and acid fumes.  This
condition existed on or about June 2, 1992.  Procedures
for confine space entry should include the following at
a minimum:
1.  Establishment of a permit system whereby a
qualified, competent individual identifies
all conditions which must be evaluated to
ensure safe entry.  The permit system shall
include management "sign-off".
2.  Testing of the atmosphere prior to entry and
while working in a confine space to ensure
adequate oxygen content and absence of toxic
or flammable gases or vapors.
3.  Training of employees in all health and safety
hazards associated with confine spaces and
appropriate rescue procedures.
4.  Provide, maintain and ensure the proper use of
safety equipment such as but not limited to
self-contained breathing apparatuses, communication
equipment, lifelines and harnesses.
5.  Utilization of ventilation equipment to provide
a safe atmosphere to enter and work in a confine
space.
6.  Posting of clearly visible warning labels at all
manways and/or installation of tamper proof
barriers at all openings.
Abatement Note:  Feasible methods of abating this hazard, among others
would be:
1.  Implementing a complete confined space entry
program as listed above.
2.  Provide a mechanical/automatic method of gauging
the liquid inside the fracturing tank.
3.  Render the fracturing tanks completely inaccessible
(e.g. by welding a barrier over all hatchways).

Issued

Nov 30, 1992

Abate by

Dec 14, 1992

Penalty

Initial $70,000 · Current $7,000 Reduced

Issued

Nov 30, 1992

Abate by

Dec 14, 1992

Issued

Nov 30, 1992

Abate by

Dec 14, 1992

Issued

Nov 30, 1992

Abate by

Dec 3, 1992

Issued

Nov 30, 1992

Abate by

Dec 14, 1992