OSHA Inspection: TANK CLEAN OF AMERICA

Issued

Mar 21, 1986

Abate by

Mar 9, 1986

Penalty

Initial $800 · Current $800

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:
On or before December 20, 1985, employees engaged in the cleaning/
inspecting of the interiors of tank trailers, and totes which
constitute confined spaces, were subjected to the hazards of toxic
and/or combustible gases and vapors and oxygen deficient atmospheres.
The employer failed to implement a confined space entry rpogram which
would assure the work being perofmred within the trailer be
accomplished safetly.
A feasible method of abatement includes, but is not limited to:
1) Written procedures covering a permit system, ventilation, atmospheric
testing, rescue procedures, and employee training.
2) The completion and posting of a confined space entry permit which
requires authorization and approval in writing that specifies the
location and type of work to be done and certifies that all existing
and potential hazards have been evaluated by a qualified person and
necessary protective measures have been taken to ensure the safety
of each worker.
3) Mechanical ventilation of the confined space prior to entry, and
continued ventilation to provide a safe atmosphere, when determined
necessary as described in (2) above.
4) Testing the atmosphere of the confined space prior to entry and on a
regular basis for presence of sufficient oxygen (19.5%) and absence
of hazardous levels of toxic or combustible gases or vapors, when
determined necessary as described in (2) above.
5) Emergency rescue procedures with a requirement that trained personnel
are available and are stationed at the entrance of the confined space
with proper equipment to provide for the rescue of persons entering
the space as determined necessary as described in (2) above. Such
equipment must include harness and lifelines with provisions for
hoisting employees from the confined space. If entry is required for
a rescue, the rescuing employee must be equipped with approved air
supplied respiratory equipment and other appropriate personal
protective equipment.
6) Training of any and all employees required to enter the confined
spaces. This training shall include procedures required prior to
entry and the hazards associated with work in confined spaces.

Issued

Mar 21, 1986

Abate by

Mar 31, 1986

Issued

Mar 21, 1986

Abate by

Mar 9, 1986