OSHA Inspection: STONEWORKS OF COLORADO LLC

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $1,600 · Current $800 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.95(c)(1):  The employer did not administer a continuing, effective hearing conservation program as described in 29 CFR 1910.95(c) through (o) whenever employee noise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) sound level of 85 decibels measured on the A scale (slow response), or equivalently, a dose of fifty percent:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not administer a continuing, effective hearing conservation program as described in 29 CFR 1910.95(c) through (o) whenever employee noise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) sound level of 85 decibels measured on the A scale (slow response), or equivalently, a dose of fifty percent.  Five employees conducted stone fabrication operations such as, but not limited to, wet and dry cutting, grinding, routing, and polishing on granite.  The employer did not establish a continuing, effective, hearing conservation program.  On July 5, 2012, one employee conducting hand-sawing, grinding, routing and polishing operations was exposed to a noise at a dose in excess of the fifty percent dose action level.  The employee was exposed to noise at a dose of 110.1%.  This is 2.2 times the action level.  This condition exposed the employee to a hazardous noise dose.  Abatement Note:  A Hearing Conservation Program shall consist of:  (1)  Development and implementation of a noise monitoring program;  (2)  Notification of employees who are exposed to noise doses in excess of the action level (50% dose);   (3)  Baseline audiogram within six months of exposure at or above the action level with annual follow-up audiogram for purposes of tracking changes in employee hearing acuity;  (4)  Providing a variety of hearing protection and requiring its use where employees are exposed to noise above the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 100% dose, where employees are exposed to noise above the Action Limit (AL) of 50% dose and have not received a baseline audiogram or has experienced a standard threshold shift;   (5)  Annual training with regards to effects of noise upon hearing, use of hearing protection, and the purpose of the audiometric testing; and,  (6)  Retention of all records including audiometric testing results and noise monitoring results.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.95(d)(1):  When information indicated that any employee's exposure equaled or exceeded the 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels, the employer did not develop and implement a monitoring program:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 12, 2012, the employer did not develop and implement a monitoring program for noise for operations such as, but not limited to, wet and dry grinding, cutting, routing, and polishing on stone slabs.  On July 5, 2012, one employee conducting hand-sawing, grinding, routing and polishing operations on granite was exposed to noise at a dose of 110.1% (90.7 dBa).  This is 2.2 times the action level.  This condition exposed the employee to a hazardous noise dose.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.95(g)(1):  The employer did not establish and maintain an audiometric testing program as provided by 29 CFR 1910.95(g) by making audiometric testing available to all employees whose exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not establish and maintain an audiometric testing program for employees conducting stone slab fabrication operations such as, but not limited to, wet and dry sawing, grinding, cutting, polishing, and routing.  On July 5, 2012, one employee conducting hand-sawing, grinding, routing and polishing operations on granite was exposed to noise at a dose of 110.1% (90.7 dBa).  This is 2.2 times the action level.  The employer has not conducted audiometric testing.  This condition exposes employees to an excessive noise dose.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.95(k)(1):  The employer did not train each employee who is exposed to noise at or above an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels in accordance with the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.95(k):  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not train each employee exposed to noise at or above an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels.  Employees perform stone fabrication operations such as, but not limited to, wet and dry sawing, cutting, grinding, routing, and polishing.  On July 5, 2012, one employee conducting hand-sawing, grinding, routing and polishing operations on granite was exposed to noise at a dose of 110.1% (90.7 dBa).  This is 2.2 times the action level.  The employer has not conducted hearing conservation training.  This condition exposed employees to an excessive noise dose.  Abatement Note:  The training program shall be repeated annually for each employee included in the hearing conservation program.  Information provided in the training program shall be updated to be consistent with changes in protective equipment and work processes.  Abatement Note:  The employer shall ensure that each employee is informed of the following:  (1)  The effects of noise on hearing;  (2)  The purpose of hearing protectors, the advantages, disadvantages, and attenuation of various types, and instructions on selection, fitting, use, and care; and,  (3)  The purpose of audiometric testing, and an explanation of the test procedures.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $2,800 · Current $1,400 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(c)(1):  A written respiratory protection program with worksite specific procedures, as specified in subparagraphs (c)(1)(i) through (ix) of this section, was not established and implemented where respirator(s) were necessary to protect the health of the employee or whenever respirator(s) were required by the employer:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not ensure a worksite specific written respiratory program was established and implemented in the workplace when the use of respirators was required during stone slab fabrication tasks which include, but are not limited to, wet and dry cutting, grinding, routing, and polishing.  All these operations generate respirable silica.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing dry cutting, dry grinding, and wet polishing and sawing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 0.769 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 1.799 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.34 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 472 minutes.    (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not ensure a worksite specific written respiratory program was established and implemented in the workplace when the use of respirators was required during stone slab fabrication tasks which include, but are not limited to, wet and dry cutting, grinding, routing, and polishing.  All these operations generate respirable silica.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing wet cutting, grinding, routing, sawing and polishing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 1.82 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 5.146 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.83 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 336 minutes.    (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not ensure a worksite specific written respiratory program was established and implemented in the workplace when the use of respirators was required during stone slab fabrication tasks which include, but are not limited to, wet and dry cutting, grinding, routing, and polishing.  All these operations generate respirable silica.  This condition exposes employees to respiratory hazards associated with silica.    Abatement Note:  The employer shall include in the program the following provisions of 29 CFR 1910.134 as applicable:  (1)  Procedures for selecting respirators for use in the workplace;  (2)  Medical evaluations of employees required to use respirators;  (3)  Fit testing procedures for tight-fitting respirators;  (4)  Procedures for proper use of respirators in routine and reasonably foreseeable emergency situations;  (5)  Procedures and schedules for cleaning, disinfecting, storing, inspecting, repairing, discarding, and otherwise maintaining respirators;  (6)  Procedures to ensure adequate air quality, quantity, and flow of breathing air for atmosphere-supplying respirators;  (7)  Training of employees in the respiratory hazards to which they are potentially exposed during routine and emergency situations;  (8)  Training of employees in the proper use of respirators, including putting on and removing them, any limitations on their use, and their maintenance; and,  (9)  Procedures for regularly evaluating the effectiveness of the program.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(d)(1)(iii):  The employer did not identify and evaluate the respiratory hazard(s) in the workplace which includes a reasonable estimate of employee exposures to respiratory hazards and identification of the contaminants chemical state and physical form:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not identify and evaluate the respiratory hazard in the workplace associated with stone fabrication operations such as, but not limited to, wet and dry grinding, cutting, sawing, routing, and polishing.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing dry cutting, dry grinding, and wet polishing and sawing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 0.769 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 1.799 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.34 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 472 minutes.    (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not identify and evaluate the respiratory hazard in the workplace associated with stone fabrication operations such as, but not limited to, wet and dry grinding, cutting, sawing, routing, and polishing.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing wet cutting, grinding, routing, sawing and polishing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 1.82 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 5.146 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.83 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 336 minutes.    (c)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not identify and evaluate the respiratory hazard in the workplace associated with stone fabrication operations such as, but not limited to, wet and dry grinding, cutting, sawing, routing, and polishing.  This condition exposes employees to respirable silica.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is not required for this item.

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(e)(1):  The employer did not provide a medical evaluation to determine the employees ability to use a respirator, before the employee is fit tested or required to use the respirator in the workplace:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not provide a medical evaluation to each employee required to wear a respirator.  The employer requires N95 dust masks for operations such as, but not limited to, dry grinding and dry cutting.  This task generates respirable silica.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing dry cutting, dry grinding, and wet polishing and sawing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 0.769 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 1.799 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.34 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 472 minutes.    (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not provide a medical evaluation to each employee required to wear a respirator.  The employer requires N95 dust masks for operations such as, but not limited to, dry grinding and dry cutting.  This task generates respirable silica.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing wet cutting, grinding, routing, sawing and polishing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 1.82 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 5.146 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.83 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 336 minutes.    Abatement Note:  The employer may discontinue an employees medical evaluations when the employee is no longer required to use a respirator.  Abatement Note:  The respirator medical examination shall be provided prior to an employee being assigned to a job that requires the use of a respirator.  Abatement Note:  The recommendation shall provide only the following information:  (1)  Any limitations on respirator use related to the medical condition of the employee, or relating to the workplace conditions in which the respirator will be used, including whether or not the employee is medically able to use the respirator;  (2)  The need, if any, for follow-up medical evaluations; and,  (3)  A statement that the PLHCP has provided the employee with a copy of the PLHCPs written recommendation.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(f)(2):  The employer did not ensure that an employee using a tight-fitting facepiece respirator was fit tested prior to initial use of the respirator, whenever a different respirator facepiece (size, style, model or make) is used, and at least annually thereafter:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer that employees using tight-fitting facepiece respirators were fit tested prior to initial use of the respirator.  The employer requires N95 dust masks for operations such as, but not limited to, dry grinding and dry cutting.  This task generates respirable silica.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing dry cutting, dry grinding, and wet polishing and sawing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 0.769 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 1.799 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.34 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 472 minutes.    (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer that employees using tight-fitting facepiece respirators were fit tested prior to initial use of the respirator.  The employer requires N95 dust masks for operations such as, but not limited to, dry grinding and dry cutting.  This task generates respirable silica.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing wet cutting, grinding, routing, sawing and polishing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 1.82 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 5.146 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.83 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 336 minutes.    Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(g)(1)(i)[A]:  The employer permitted respirators with tight-fitting facepieces to be worn by who have facial hair that comes between the sealing surface of the facepiece and the face:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer permitted employees to wear tight-fitting respirators with facial hair.  These employees wore N95 respirators while dry and wet-cutting, polishing, and grinding on granite slabs containing silica.  This condition exposed employees to silica.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(k):  The employer did not provide comprehensive, understandable, annual training for employees required to wear respirators in the workplace:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not provide respiratory protection training prior to employees using respirators in the workplace.  Employees wear dust masks while conducting slab fabrication operations such as, but not limited to, sawing, cutting, grinding, routing, and polishing.  These operations expose employees to respirable silica.  Employees were observed incorrectly wearing the dust mask or not at all.  Employees were observed wearing the dust masks with facial hair and were unaware of the user seal check.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing dry cutting, dry grinding, and wet polishing and sawing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 0.769 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 1.799 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.34 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 472 minutes.    (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not provide respiratory protection training prior to employees using respirators in the workplace.  Employees wear dust masks while conducting slab fabrication operations such as, but not limited to, sawing, cutting, grinding, routing, and polishing.  These operations expose employees to respirable silica.  Employees were observed incorrectly wearing the dust mask or not at all.  Employees were observed wearing the dust masks with facial hair and were unaware of the user seal check.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing wet cutting, grinding, routing, sawing and polishing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 1.82 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 5.146 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.83 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 336 minutes.    Abatement Note:  The employer shall ensure that each employee can demonstrate knowledge of at least the following:  (1)  Why the respirator is necessary and how improper fit, usage, or maintenance can compromise the protective effect of the respirator;   (2)  What the limitations and capabilities of the respirator are;  (3)  How to use the respirator effectively in emergency situations, including situations in which the respirator malfunctions;  (4)  How to inspect, put on and remove, use, and check the seals for the respirator;  (5)  What the procedures are for maintenance and storage of the respirator;  (6)  How to recognize medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the effective use of respirators; and,  (7)  The general requirements of this section.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

May 29, 2013

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1000(c):  An employees exposure to a substance listed in Table Z-3, in any 8-hour work shift of a 40-hour work week, exceeded the 8-hour Time Weighted Average (TWA) limit given for that substance:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing dry cutting, dry grinding, and wet polishing and sawing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 0.769 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 1.799 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.34 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 472 minutes.    (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing wet cutting, grinding, routing, sawing and polishing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 1.82 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 5.146 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.83 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 336 minutes.    Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

May 29, 2013

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1000(e):   Feasible administrative or engineering controls were not determined and implemented to achieve compliance with the limits prescribed in 29 CFR 1910.1000(a) through (d):  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On July 5, 2012, the employer did not implement feasible administrative or engineering controls to reduce and maintain employee exposure to respirable silica in accordance with the schedule in Table Z-3 of this paragraph.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing dry cutting, dry grinding, and wet polishing and sawing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 0.769 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 1.799 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.34 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 472 minutes.    (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On July 5, 2012, the employer did not implement feasible administrative or engineering controls to reduce and maintain employee exposure to respirable silica in accordance with the schedule in Table Z-3 of this paragraph.  On July 5, 2012, one employee performing wet cutting, grinding, routing, sawing and polishing on granite slabs was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration greater than the 8-hour TWA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 1.82 milligrams per cubic meter.  The employee was exposed to respirable silica at a concentration of 5.146 milligrams per cubic meter as an 8-hour TWA.  This is 2.83 times the PEL.  Air monitoring was conducted for 336 minutes.    Abatement Note:  Feasible engineering controls include, but are not limited to:  (1)  Provide local exhaust ventilation either by installation of local exhaust ventilation at each work station capable of generating airborne dust, or by use of a vacuum system right angle head grinder.  (2)  Use wet methods to reduce airborne respirable particles.  Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will normally be multi-step as follows:  (1)  Effective respiratory protection shall be provided and used by exposed employees as an interim protective measure until feasible engineering and/or administrative controls can be implemented or whenever such controls fail to reduce employee exposure to within exposure limits.  STEP 1 ABATEMENT DATE (15 DAYS):  X  (2)  Submit to the Area Director a written detailed plan of abatement outlining a schedule for the implementation of engineering and/or administrative measures to control employee exposures to the hazardous substance referenced in this citation.  The plan should include, at a minimum, target dates for the following actions which should be consistent with the dates required by this citation:  (a)  Evaluation of the extent and location of the hazard source;  (b)  Evaluation of control measure options;  (c)  Selection of optimum control measures;  (d)  Determination of control measure designs;  (e)  Ordering and delivery of equipment;  (f)  Installation of control measures;  (g)  Training of employees in proper operation and maintenance of newly implemented control measures; and,  (h)  Assurance of the effective performance of control measures.  All control measures shall be evaluated for each particular use by a competent Industrial Hygienist or other technically qualified person.  Thirty day progress reports are required during the abatement period.  The progress report must identify the action taken to achieve abatement and the date the action was taken.  STEP 2 ABATEMENT DATE (60 DAYS):  X  (3)  Abatement will be completed by the implementation of feasible engineering and/or administrative controls and upon verification of their effectiveness in achieving compliance.  STEP 3 ABATEMENT DATE (90 DAYS):  X  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $1,200 · Current $600 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.178(l)(1)(i):  The employer did not ensure that each powered industrial truck operator was competent to operate a powered industrial truck safely, as demonstrated by the successful completion of the training and evaluation specified in this paragraph (l):  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not ensure that each powered industrial truck operator was competent to operate a powered industrial truck safety, as demonstrated by successful completion of the training and evaluation specified in 29 CFR 1910.178(l).  Employees were observed operating a Clark powered industrial truck to move large granite slabs between the yard and the fabrication shop.  The employer did not ensure that the employee was competent to operate the powered industrial truck safety by successfully completing a training and evaluation program.  This condition exposed potentially employees to a struck-by hazard.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $1,200 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.242(b):  Compressed air used for cleaning purposes was not reduced to less than 30 p.s.i.:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, compressed air used for cleaning purposes was not reduced to less than 30 p.s.i.  Compressed air nozzles in the fabrication shop averaged approximately 65 p.s.i. and 60 p.s.i.  The compressed air is used to clean and dry off granite and equipment.  This condition potentially exposes employees to projectile hazards from flying debris and respiratory hazards.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 20, 2012

Penalty

Initial $1,200 · Current $600 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.243(c)(3):  Abrasive wheels used on vertical portable grinder(s) (right angle head grinders) were not provided with safety guard(s) having a maximum exposure angle of 180 degrees and located between the operator and wheel:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not ensure that an abrasive wheel on a right angle grinder was used with a guard.  One employee was observed using a right angle grinder to conduct dry grinding without a guard.  This condition exposes employees to a projectile hazard.    Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $1,200 · Current $600 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.305(g)(1)(iv)(A):  Flexible cords and/or cables were used as a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer used an extension cord as a substitute for fixed wiring to provide power to the pump for the water filtration system.  This condition potentially exposes employees to electrical shock and fire hazards.  (b)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer used an extension cord as a substitute for fixed wiring to provide power to the laser on the JMM saw.  This condition potentially exposes employees to electrical hazards.  (c)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer used an extension cords as substitutes for fixed wiring to provide power to portable tools used for fabrication operations.  Equipment includes, but is not limited to, hand saws, right angle grinders, routers, and polishers.  This condition potentially exposes employees to electrical shock and fire hazards.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.305(j)(2)(iv):  Receptacles installed in wet or damp locations were not suitable for the location:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer permitted the use of non-GFCI-protected outlet to provide power to the pump used for the water filtration system.  The outlet is located adjacent to trough on the water collection system located on the south side of the building between the bridge saws.  This condition potentially exposes employees to an electrical hazard.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $2,000 · Current $1,000 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(1)(i):  The written hazard communication program did not include a list of the hazardous chemicals known to be present, using an identity that was referenced on the appropriate material safety data sheet:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not develop, implement, and maintain at the workplace a list of the hazardous chemicals known to be present at Stoneworks of Colorado LLC which includes, but is not limited to:  (1)  Granite, containing silica;  (2)  Superior Polyester Transparent Knife Grade;  (3)  Superior Transparent Flowing; and,  (4)  Lacquer Thinner.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(5):  The employer did not ensure that each container of hazardous chemicals in the workplace was labeled, tagged, or marked with the identity and appropriate hazard warnings regarding the chemicals contained therein:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not ensure that a 55 gallon drum of lacquer thinner was labeled with the identity and health warnings associated with the chemical.  This condition exposes employees to a chemical hazard.  Abatement Note:  Each container of hazardous chemicals in the workplace must be labeled with the following information:  (1)  Identity of the hazardous chemical(s); and,  (2)  Appropriate hazard warnings with the specific information regarding the physical and health hazards of the hazardous chemical(s).  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(g)(8):  The employer did not maintain copies of the required material safety data sheets for each hazardous chemical in the workplace:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not maintain a MSDS for each hazardous chemical used in the workplace.  Employees use chemicals such as, but not limited to:  (1)  Granite, containing silica;  (2)  Superior Polyester Transparent Knife Grade;  (3)  Superior Transparent Flowing; and,  (4)  Lacquer Thinner.  This condition potentially exposes employees to chemical hazards.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(h)(1):  Employees were not provided with effective information and training on hazardous chemicals in their work area at the time of their initial assignment and whenever a new physical or health hazard that the employees have not been previously trained about was introduced into their work area:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not provide effective information and training to employees on the physical and health hazards associated with granite and engineered stone slab fabrication operations.  Employees were unaware of the term "silica" and why it is unhealthy for them to breathe in.  Employees were also unaware of Material Safety Data Sheets.  This condition potentially exposes employees to health hazards associated with silica.  Abatement Note:  Information and training may be designed to cover categories of hazards (ie. flammability, carcinogenicity) or specific chemicals.  Chemical-specific information must always be available through labels and material safety data sheets.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.22(a)(1):  All places of employment, passageways, storerooms or service rooms were not kept clean and orderly or in a sanitary condition.  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before July 5, 2012, the employer did not keep the shop in an orderly condition in that extension cords and water hoses were permitted to be kept in disarray in the shop during fabrication activities.  Both the extension cords and the water hoses run from the north wall to the employees workstation while lying on the floor.  This condition potentially exposes employees to trip hazards.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.23(a)(8):  Every floor hole into which persons can accidentally walk was not guarded:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the trough in the fabrication shop for collection of granite dust and water was not guarded.  The trough is approximately 1 foot in width by several feet in length by 2 inches deep.  This condition potentially exposes employees to a tripping hazard.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is not required for this item.

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Jan 31, 2013

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.132(d)(2):  The employer did not verify that the required workplace hazard assessment has been performed through a written certification which included the requirements as outlined in 29 CFR 1910.132(d)(2):  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not ensure that the required workplace hazard assessment has been performed for the facility.  The facility includes operations such as, but not limited to, wet and dry cutting, grinding, routing, and polishing.  This condition potentially exposes employees to hazards such as, but not limited to, inhalation, lacerations, noise, struck-by and crushing hazards.  Abatement Note:  The written certification shall identify the following:  (1)  The workplace evaluated;  (2)  The person certifying that the evaluation has been performed;  (3)  The date(s) of the hazard assessment; and,  (4)  The document as a certification of hazard assessment.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.157(e)(3):  Portable fire extinguishers were not subjected to an annual maintenance check:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the employer did not ensure that portable fire extinguishers were subjected to an annual maintenance check.  This condition potentially exposes employees to a fire hazard.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is not required for this item.

Issued

Nov 26, 2012

Abate by

Dec 14, 2012

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.303(b)(1)(ii):  Electrical equipment was not free from recognized hazards, based on the mechanical strength and durability, including, for parts designed to enclose and protect other equipment, the adequacy of the protection thus provided:  (a)  Stoneworks of Colorado LLC at 3555 S Lincoln Ave Unit A, Loveland, CO 80537:  On and before June 29, 2012, the conduit enclosing the electrical cords powering the hydraulic lift on the east bridge saw was broken and covered with electrical tape.  This condition potentially exposes employees to an electrical hazard.    Abatement Note:  Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).