OSHA Inspection: KOCH & COMPANY, INC.

Issued

Aug 18, 1998

Abate by

Dec 7, 1998

Penalty

Initial $1,250 · Current $625 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 flying plastic projectiles:
(a)  Employee(s) using compressed air in PVC plastic piping to run air
tools and
equipment at the establishment were exposed to flying projectiles from
potential
rupture of the PVC plastic piping.
Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable method to correct this
hazard is:
(1)  Replace the current PVC compressed air piping system with a system
containing
materials suitable for maximum air pressure such as approved
thermo-plastic or metal
pipes.
(2)  Limit operating pressure of plastic piping distribution systems to
100 psi and
insure that the above ground portion of the plastic service lines are
completely
enclosed in conduit or casing of sufficient strength to provide protection
from external
damage and deterioration.
**This citation requires certification and documentation that the
abatement of the
above violation is complete.