OSHA Inspection: EDWARD BLANK ASSOCIATES

Issued

Sep 25, 1997

Abate by

Oct 6, 1997

Penalty

Initial $1,300 · Current $650 Reduced

General-duty citation text

Title 40.1-51.1.(a) Code of Virginia:  The employer did not
furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from
recognized hazards that were likely to cause serious physical harm
to employees in that employees were exposed to:
a)  Fifty-eight office chairs located in the telemarketing area
were not maintained in a safe condition.  The levers for the tilt
lock mechanisms that are designed to lock and secure the back
supports in one or more reclined positions were not functioning as
provided by the manufacturer, allowing the chair backs to tilt back
more than 45 degrees from the vertical without resistance, changing
the center of gravity unexpectedly, and subjecting employees to
possible injuries by falling backwards from a sitting position.
One feasible and acceptable abatement method, among others, to
correct this hazard is to inspect all chairs regularly for defects
and to have all damaged chairs immediately repaired or removed from
service in accordance with the requirements set forth in
1910.242(a)of the standard which states, "Each employer shall be
responsible for the safe condition of equipment."