OSHA Inspection: PETROLEUM EXPERIENCE, INC.

Issued

Aug 28, 2007

Abate by

Oct 1, 2007

Penalty

Initial $2,500 · Current $1,250 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 flash fire and/or explosion hazards:
(a) On May 26, 2007, at approximately 11:00 pm, employees were exposed to
a flash
fire while attempting to start a diesel generated light plant utilizing
battery cables
attached to the battery of a Chevrolet diesel pick-up during a flow-back
operation,
creating an ignition source adjacent to hydrocarbon vapors emitting from
an open top,
flat flow-back tank at the Zacher Well #1-24H in Mountrail County, North
Dakota.
Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable method of abatement would
be to incorporate
the following:
1.  Use detection monitors to test the lower explosive limit (LEL) of the
atmosphere in
the immediate work area.
2.  Use wind socks on the site for aid in determining wind strength and
direction.
3.  Take the necessary steps to eliminate sources of ignition in areas
where hydrocarbons
are known to be present.
4.  Eliminate the use of an open top tank by using an enclosed system that
degasses the
fluid and vents the gas to a flare.
Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required
for this item (see
enclosed "Sample Abatement Certification Letter").tion

Issued

Aug 28, 2007

Abate by

Oct 15, 2007

Penalty

Initial $2,500 · Current $1,250 Reduced

Issued

Aug 28, 2007

Abate by

Oct 15, 2007

Penalty

Initial $2,500 · Current $1,250 Reduced

Issued

Aug 28, 2007

Abate by

Oct 15, 2007