OSHA Inspection: M.F. BANK THE RESTORATION CO.

Issued

Mar 22, 1993

Abate by

Apr 5, 1993

Penalty

Initial $24,500 · Current $20,000 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 toxic and/or asphyxiation hazard while performing a
cleaning operation using a halogenated organic solvent inside of a
sealed room:
a) M.F. Bank - The Restoration Company at Mrs. Pauls Kitchens,
Inc., 5501 Tabor Rd, Phila, Pa., Motor Control Center - Two (2)
Supervisor/ Technicians, and five (5) Subcontractor skilled
laborer were required to perform two (2) separate cleaning
operations inside of a sealed room (i.e. confined space) on
October 3, 1992.  The supervisor/technicians were performing an
electrical component cleaning operation utilizing a solution of 90
Freon TF690 and 10isopropyl alcohol, applied with a high
powered airless sprayer.  The room had no existing mechanical
ventilation, the workers wore no respiratory protection, and
standard confined space entry precautions were not followed.  The
workers were exposed to a toxic and/or asphyxiation hazard which
may have resulted in death or serious physical harm.
Observed 10/6/93
b) M.F. Bank - The Restoration Company at Mrs. Pauls Kitchens,
Inc., 5501 Tabor Rd, Phila, Pa., Emergency Lighting Room -Three
(3) Supervisor/ Technicians, and six (6) Subcontractor skilled
laborer were required to perform two (2) separate cleaning
operations inside of a sealed room (i.e. confined space) on
October 4, 1992.  The supervisor/technicians were performing an
electrical component cleaning operation utilizing a solution of 90
Freon TF690 and 10isopropyl alcohol, applied with a high
powered airless sprayer.  The room had no existing mechanical
ventilation, the workers were wearing either no respiratory
protection or inappropriate respiratory protection, and standard
confined space entry precautions were not followed.  The workers
were exposed to a toxic and/or asphyxiation hazard which may have
resulted in the death one (1) worker and the hospitalization
of six (6) others. Observed 10/6/93
ABATEMENT NOTE:  Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable
abatement method to correct this hazard is to develop and
implement
a comprehensive confined space entry program, which would
include the following elements as a minimum:
1.  All personnel assigned to work in confined areas shall be
properly trained in safe entry and rescue procedures.  The
training
shall provide a working knowledge and understanding of any and
all hazards that may exist.
2.   Entry into confined spaces shall be by written entry permit,
issued by the responsible supervisor or other qualified person.
The permit must include a checklist of precautions to be reviewed
prior to entry and document the location and type of work to be
done.  The permit must be dated and identify the expiration time
(usually limited to an 8 to 10 hour shift).
3.  Atmospheric Testing - The enclosed space must be tested for
the following prior to and during any entry:
(a)  Oxygen Content - The oxygen content must be between 19.5
and 22.0at all of the lower explosive limit).
(b)  Flammability - The atmosphere must be nonexplosive (i.e.
less than 10of the lower explosive limit).
(c)  Toxicity -  The atmosphere must be tested to ensure the
absence of toxic concentration of vapors.
4.   Ventilation - A system of positive ventilation must be
provided, prior to and during the entire entry period, through
the use of fans, portavents, air movers, or by adequate natural
drafts.
5.   Personal protective equipment - personal protective equipment
is not an adequate substitute for safe working conditions,
adequate
ventilation, or safe working practices.  Personal protective
equipment can include, but is not limited to, an approved
respirator
which provides an appropriate level of protection, hard
hat, safety glasses (or goggles), gloves, and appropriate full
body covering.
6.  Area Safety Equipment - Any person entering the enclosed area
must be fitted with a safety harness and lifeline.  The lifeline
must be secured outside the entrance.  A hoisting device or other
effective means must be provided to lift employees out of the
space.
7.   Safety Standby Personnel - An additional person(s) must be
available at the confined area entrance and in the sight of the
personnel inside at all times.  Standby personnel must be equipped
with proper safety equipment and adequate communication equipment
to summon additional help if necessary.  Standby personnel must
not enter the enclosed area without appropriate safety and
personal
protective equipment and additional standby personnel must be
present at the time of entry.

Issued

Mar 22, 1993

Abate by

Apr 5, 1993

Penalty

Initial $24,500 · Current $20,000 Reduced

Issued

Mar 22, 1993

Abate by

Apr 5, 1993

Penalty

Initial $24,500 · Current $20,000 Reduced

Issued

Mar 22, 1993

Abate by

Apr 5, 1993

Issued

Mar 22, 1993

Abate by

Apr 5, 1993

Issued

Mar 22, 1993

Abate by

Apr 5, 1993

Penalty

Initial $24,500 · Current $10,000 Reduced