OSHA Inspection: NEWPARK DRILLING FLUIDS

Issued

Feb 9, 2006

Abate by

Mar 14, 2006

Penalty

Initial $1,375 · Current $1,375

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 was free from
recognized hazards that
were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to
employees in that
employees were exposed to falls in excess of 12 feet from the top of Frac
Tanks while; (1)
testing the atmosphere through the three (3) roof hatches with a hand held
BIOS 4 gas
monitor, and (2) during non-entry procedures to clean frac tank(s):
The procedure for cleaning the tank requires the employee to climb on top
of the tank with a
1.5 inch high pressure water hose and clean the interior of the tank
through the same three
(3) hatches the employee uses to test the atmosphere; the above tasks are
performed outside
in all weather conditions including icy conditions.  Since the tasks are
performed
in a set
location at the facility, among other feasible and acceptable abatement
methods to correct the
hazard, the company could install a fall arrest system or positioning
device system.  Also,
some tank manufacturers have suitable guard rails as part of the design of
the frac tank.

Issued

Feb 9, 2006

Abate by

Feb 22, 2006

Penalty

Initial $1,375 · Current $1,375