OSHA Inspection: NITROUS OXIDE CORPORATION

Issued

Jan 27, 2017

Abate by

Dec 19, 2017

Penalty

Initial $12,471 · Current $12,471

General-duty citation text

OSH ACT of 1970 Section (5)(a)(1): 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:    a. On August 28, 2016, an employee was exposed to nitrous oxide explosive decomposition while loading transport trailer 182 with liquid nitrous oxide.     Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable method to correct this hazard would be to follow safety guidelines for preventing nitrous oxide decomposition that are outlined in Compressed Gas Association standard G-8.3. Such as:     Continuous monitoring of transport tank fill process - CGA G-8.3 Section 8.2  Transport Tanks - During filling, the pump discharge pressure shall be monitored to ensure that the pump operates within the specified performance conditions. The pressure and the level indicator (if any) of the transport tank shall be monitored to avoid overfilling and at completion of filling the full try-cock shall be opened to verify that the filling quantity is correct. If designed for this_ function, the vapor return may serve as the full try-cock.       Automatic pump shut off when fill level reached - CGA G-8.3 Section 8.2- During filling, the pump pressure shall be monitored to ensure that the pump operates within the specified performance conditions. The pressure and the level indicator of the transport tank shall be monitored to avoid overfilling and at completion of filling the full try-cock shall be opened to verify that the filling quantity is correct. If designed for this function, the vapor return may serve as the full try-cock.       MOC for Pump Change (centrifugal versus gear) - CGA G-8.3 Section 7.4.1- Section 5.10  Maintenance Procedures - Modifications to a nitrous oxide installation or non-routine Maintenance work shall not be made without a risk assessment, which could result in a  management of change and requirement for a work permit.       Pump strainer containing steel wool - CGA G-8.3 Section 7.4.1- The suction line shall be fitted with a filter that shall have as little pressure drop as possible.       Bonding straps at loading station - CGA G-8, Section 7.3.4  Grounding - All parts of the transport tank shall be bonded to ensure electrical continuity.