OSHA Inspection: WILLIAM KOEBERL

Issued

2013-12-02 00:00:00

Abate by

2013-12-06 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $2800.00 · Current $2800.00

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 struck by hazards during tree removal operations.     On or about June 19, 2013, at the area west of 311 Brellinger, Columbia, IL, employee was fatality injured as a result of being struck during tree felling operations. The employer had not established communication methods prior to tree removal and rigging operations and did not ensure suitable cutting methods and retreat/escape routes were planned.     Among other means, one feasible and acceptable method to correct the hazard would be to follow American National Standard, ANSI Z133  2012, For Arboricultural Operations  Safety Requirements, Section 8.4 Rigging and Section 8.5 Tree Removal. Before beginning any tree removal operation, the employer shall discuss and establish a method of verbal, audible or visual communication during the job briefing prior to start of tree removal or rigging operations. The employer shall carefully consider relevant factors pertaining to the tree and site and shall take appropriate actions to ensure a safe removal operation.