OSHA Inspection: AMERIGAS EAGLE PROPANE, LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

Issued

Oct 2, 2007

Abate by

Nov 16, 2007

Penalty

Initial $5,000 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety & 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 fire and explosion hazards associated with filling LP gas on
site at a residence.
Location - 36 South Village Road, Dennis:
On 05/30/07, liquefied petroleum gas vapors ignited during filling
operations as cylinders
and a nearby source of ignition were stored in a shed, causing 2nd degree
burns to the
delivery driver.
Feasible Abatement methods include but are not limited to the following:
1. Ensure that cylinders to be filled on site are installed outside and at
safe distances from
sources of ignition in accordance to NFPA 58 Table 6.3.9 Separation
Distance Between
Container Pressure Relief Valve and Building Openings.
2. Ensure all delivery drivers are trained to inspect on site filling
storage locations and evaluate
that all personnel are proficient in knowledge of safe distances in
accordance to NFPA 58 Table
6.3.9 Separation Distance between Container Pressure Relief Valve and
Building Openings.
Ensure that when filling on site, filling operations  are performed
outside or in well ventilated
areas.
3. Implement a written pre-filling inspection procedure for pre-trip forms
with a sequence of
maneuvers to be taken in making residential deliveries. Indicate on the
delivery ticket the
location of cylinders in relation to safe distances from exterior sources
of ignition from nearby
equipment, direct vent appliances, mechanical ventilation air intakes, and
building openings,
addressing the issue to remind bulk truck operators to be cautious of
nearby sources of ignition
that may be installed prior to or after storage tank installation.
4. Ensure employees are trained to recognize the differences between
incipient stage fire
fighting, controlling fires involving tanks containing propane, and when
to evacuate the area.