OSHA Inspection: EARTH INC.

Issued

Jul 11, 1996

Abate by

Jul 16, 1996

Penalty

Initial $2,800 · Current $1,000 Reduced

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970:  The
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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:
On 6-5-96, employees were exposed to the hazards of broken bones and death
while
performing work duties around and adjacent to the unprotected swing radius
of the
Komatsu Backhoe serial number 430210 superstructure.
The hazard can be abated by, but not limited to, a program including the
following
criteria:
1.Prevent employee access to the swing radius of the excavator when
working in close proximity.  This may be accomplished through the use
of barricades, warning lines, or a lookout person stationed adjacent to the
hazardous location.
2.Install a rear view mirror on the right hand side of the excavator to
increase the operator's vision in the blind areas while operating.
3.Train all employees in the hazards involved with material handling
equipment and the use of good safety practices.
4.Enforce and document the above procedures.