OSHA Inspection: MITCHELL ENERGY CORPORATION

Issued

Aug 14, 1998

Abate by

Aug 14, 1998

Penalty

Initial $4,500 · Current $4,500

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1)
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:  Mitchell Energy
Corporation had
control of the Carl V. Cheves #2 well, located East Risch (Caddo Congl.)
field, Wise
County, Texas.  The well was scheduled for a temporary abandonment and a
mechanical
integrity test had to be performed.  Mitchell Energy Corporation
contracted work to Energy
Service Company.  On or about May 6, 1998, The Carl V. Cheves #2 well had
a
fire.  The
fire could have been caused by static electricity, a spark, or open flame.
According to the
NFPA, a surge of oil and gas flowing out of tubing could result in a
static discharge.  The
rig was not grounded.  There was no static line or grounding rod connected
to the rig.
Among methods of abatement, one feasible and acceptable method to abate
these conditions
would be for the employer to abide by the American Petroleum Institute
#54, Section 5.

Issued

Aug 14, 1998

Abate by

Aug 14, 1998

Penalty

Initial $4,500 · Current $4,500

Issued

Aug 14, 1998

Abate by

Aug 14, 1998

Penalty

Initial $1,800 · Current $1,800