OSHA Inspection: MISSOURI BASIN WELL SERVICE, INC.

Issued

Aug 9, 2018

Abate by

Sep 5, 2018

Penalty

Initial $12,934 · Current $0 Reduced

Hazardous substances 03200420102513801640

General-duty citation text

Section (5)(a)(1): The employer failed to furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which was free from recognized hazards that were causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm, in that employees were exposed to fire hazards:    (a) On or about February 11, 2018 for employees who were burned during a flash fire while performing maintenance on a vacuum truck when flammable gases that were expelled from the operation of a vacuum were ignited by a diesel fueled pressure washer at the facility located at 360 102x Avenue SW in Killdeer, North Dakota.  Abatement note:  Among other feasible and useful means of abatement, the employer can follow the procedures outlined in API RP 2219 including but not limited to:    1.        Evaluate the production liquids present in vacuum trailers. All parties involved with vacuum truck operations shall be aware that waste products from petroleum operations may contain trace amounts of flammable or combustible liquids and gases or other hazardous materials that may cause serious injury, illness, or death if not properly handled. In addition, vacuum truck operators shall be aware that when under vacuum, even trace amount of hydrocarbons and hydrogen sulfide gas can be easily released and create flammable and/or toxic atmospheres;   2.       Control the emission of toxic and flammable liquids and vapors into the maintenance shop. This can be accomplished by attaching a length of exhaust hose to the vacuum exhaust that is sufficiently long enough to reach an area that is free from potential hazards, sources of ignition, and personnel. The hose should be preferably extended 50 ft downwind of the truck and away from the source of the liquid;  3.       Provide continuous atmospheric monitoring by a qualified person using properly calibrated and adjusted combustible gas indicators, appropriate toxic gas testers, or hydrocarbon vapor analyzers during maintenance operations;  4.       Control ignition sources during maintenance operations. Sources of ignition include vacuum truck engine and exhaust heat; pump overheating; faulty or improper electrical devices; static electricity discharges; and outside ignition sources such as smoking, motor vehicles, stationary engines, etc.