OSHA Inspection: GILA RIVER FARMS

Issued

Oct 5, 1992

Abate by

Oct 16, 1992

Penalty

Initial $3,500 · Current $3,500

General-duty citation text

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 unsafe driving conditions through the lack of
a mandatory motorcycle helmet usage program while operating ATVs.  One
feasible and acceptable method to correct this hazard is to develop a
mandatory motorcycle helmet usage policy and education program.
a.  Location:  I-10 Exit 175, South 2 miles, alfalfa field
Motorcycle helmets are not required to be worn by field
workers (including irrigators) while operating ATV's.
b.  Motorcycle helmets are not provided.  Owner's manual
for ATV (Suzuki LT-F160) warns against anyone operating
ATV without an approved motorcycle helmet (see page
20).  Manual also states failure to follow warnings
can result in INJURY OR DEATH (page 1).
c.  Field 16 - 8w, Gila River Farms, Sacaton, AZ
d.  Death of employee, 07/22/92.
e.  Medical Examiner Statement - "Massive head injuries
which is consistent with motorcycle accidents.