OSHA Inspection: BLAST TECH, INC.

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-06-07 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $4048.00 · Current $2024.00 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(c): The employer did not ensure that no employee was exposed to an airborne concentration of respirable crystalline silica in excess of 50 ug/m3, calculated as an 8-hour TWA:    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were protected from the harmful effects of exposure to respirable crystalline silica.   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica and recorded exceedances of the PEL; one employee had an 8 hour-TWA of 400 ug/m3.        Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed in a multi-step process 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 (20 DAYS): 08/14/2020    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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 (20 DAYS):  8/14/20    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 (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(d)(1): The employer did not assess the exposure of each employee who was or may reasonably be expected to be exposed to respirable crystalline silica at or above the action level in accordance with either the performance option in paragraph (d)(2) or the scheduled monitoring option in paragraph (d)(3) of this section:  a) On or about January 24, 2020, and at times prior, employees were potentially exposed to health hazards  (including but not limited to acute and chronic forms of silicosis) from exposure to respirable crystalline silica where the employer did not assess the exposure for each employee.  Employees performing abrasive blasting to remove paint from automotive parts use Quickrete silica sand as abrasive blasting media.  There was no exposure assessment performed for employees who are using silica-containing abrasive blasting media.

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(e)(1): The employer did not establish a regulated area wherever an employee's exposure to airborne concentrations of respirable crystalline silica was, or could have been reasonably expected to be, in excess of the PEL:     (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not establish a regulated area when employee's exposure to respirable crystalline silica exceeded the PEL of 50 ug/m3.   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica and recorded exceedances of the PEL; one employee had an 8 hour-TWA of 400 ug/m3.        Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed in a multi-step process  as follows:     1. 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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 1. ABATEMENT DATE (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020    2. Abatement will be completed by the implementation of feasible engineering and/or administrative controls and upon verification of their effectiveness in achieving compliance.    STEP 2 ABATEMENT DATE (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(f)(2)(i): The employer did not establish and implement a written exposure control plan:    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not establish and implement a written compliance program to reduce employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica.  As a result of a lack of a written compliance program as outlined in 1910.1053, means to reduce exposures to or below the permissible exposure limit were not established and implemented in the work place.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica and recorded exceedances of the PEL; one employee had an 8 hour-TWA of 400 ug/m3.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(f)(3): In addition to the requirements of paragraph (f)(1) of this section, the employer did not comply with other OSHA standards, when applicable, such as 29 CFR 1910.94 (Ventilation), 29 CFR 1915.34 (Mechanical paint removers), and 29 CFR 1915 Subpart I (Personal Protective Equipment), where abrasive blasting was conducted using crystalline silica-containing blasting agents, or where abrasive blasting was conducted on substrates that contain crystalline silica:    (a) Blast-Tech Inc., 3775 S. Kalamath St., Englewood, CO 80110: On or about January 28, 2020, the employer did not comply with OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.94, subparagraph (a)(3)(i)(a). The blast-cleaning room using Quickrrete silica sand as a blasting substrate did not have air inlets and access openings arranged in a way to minimize the escape of silica dust particles into adjacent work areas.  Employees were exposed to inhalation and ingestion hazards due to the accumulation of dust particles in adjacent work areas as a result of the arrangement of air inlets and access openings.      (b) Blast-Tech Inc., 3775 S. Kalamath St., Englewood, CO 80110: On or about January 28, 2020, the employer did not comply with OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.94, subparagraph (a)(3)(i)(e)(1).  The blast-cleaning room using Quickrete silica sand did not have doors that were not flanged and tight when closed.  Employees were exposed to inhalation and ingestion hazards due to silica dust particles from blast-cleaning room accumulating in adjacent work areas as a result of large bay doors on all blast-cleaning rooms not being flanged and tight when closed.      (c) Blast-Tech Inc., 3775 S. Kalamath St., Englewood, CO 80110: On or about January 28, 2020, the employer did not comply with OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.94, subparagraph (a)(4)(i)(a).  When dust leaks in the blast-cleaning room using Quickrete silica sand were noted, repairs were not made as soon as possible.  Employees were exposed to inhalation and ingestion hazards due to accumulation of silica dust particles in adjacent work areas as a result of leaks in the blast-cleaning rooms due to factors such as cracked or broken hoses and unrepaired holes in the walls of the room.     Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed in a multi-step process 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 (20 DAYS): 07/20/2020    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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020    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 (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(h)(2)(i): The employer shall not allow compressed air to be used to clean clothing or surfaces where such activity could contribute to employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica unless compressed air is used in conjunction with a ventilation system that effectively captures the dust cloud created by the compressed air:    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. employees used compressed air to clean surfaces in a manner which could contribute to employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica.  Employees used compressed air to clean surfaces while enclosed booth doors were open, reducing the effectiveness of the booth ventilation system and exposing employees in adjacent work areas.    Abatement note: Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(i)(1)(i): The employer did not make medical surveillance available at no cost to each employee, and at a reasonable time and place, for each employee who has been occupationally exposed to respirable crystalline silica at or above the action level for 30 or more days per year:    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not implement a medical surveillance program for employees who could be exposed to respirable crystalline silica above the action level of 25 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3).   Employees are exposed to respirable crystalline silica while using Quikrete silica sand as a blast cleaning media for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica and recorded exceedances of the AL; one employee had an 8 hour-TWA of 400 ug/m3.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-06 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(j)(3)(i): The employer did not ensure that each employee covered by this section could demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the following: (A) the health hazards associated with exposure to respirable crystalline silica; (B) specific tasks in the workplace that could result in exposure to respirable crystalline silica; (C) specific measures the employer has implemented to protect employees from exposure to respirable crystalline silica, including engineering controls, work practices, and respirators to be used; (D) the contents of this section; and, (E) the purpose and a description of the medical surveillance program required by paragraph (i) of this section:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees potentially exposed to respirable crystalline silica could demonstrate knowledge and understanding of topics addressed in 1910.1053(j)(3)(i) subparagraphs (A)-(E).  Employees were not trained on hazards such as respirable crystalline silica in the workplace.    Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-06-07 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $4048.00 · Current $2024.00 Reduced

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(c)(1): Employee(s) were exposed to lead at concentrations greater than fifty micrograms per cubic meter of air averaged over an eight-hour period:    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were protected from the harmful effects of overexposure to lead where an exposure exceeded OSHA's permissible exposure limit (PEL).   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to lead and recorded exceedances of the PEL of 50 ug/m3; two employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 234 ug/m3 and 1290 ug/m3.     Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed by a multi-step proecess 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 (20 DAYS): 07/20/2020    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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020    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 (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(d)(2): An initial determination was not made to determine if any employee may be exposed to lead at or above the action level:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not conduct an initial determination to evaluate employee exposure to lead.  Employees performing blast-cleaning procedures are exposed to lead above the action level (AL) of 30 ug/m3.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to lead and recorded exceedances of the AL of 30 ug/m3; three employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 50 ug/m3, 236 ug/m3, and 1290 ug/m3.

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(e)(3)(i): The employer did not establish and implement a written compliance program to reduce exposures to or below the permissible exposure limit, solely by means of engineering and work practice controls:    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not establish and implement a written compliance program to reduce employee exposure to lead.  As a result of a lack of a written compliance program as outlined in 1910.1025(e)(3), means to reduce exposures to or below the permissible exposure limit were not established and implemented in the work place.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(e)(4)(i): When ventilation was used to control exposure to lead, measurements which demonstrate the effectiveness of the system in controlling exposure were not made at least every three months:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not routinely take measurements of the ventilation system.  The employer did not establish baseline measurements of the ventilation system to ensure it was controlling exposure to lead.  There were no measurements of the system every three months.     Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item.  (See enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(g)(2)(i): Protective clothing required in 29 CFR 1910.1025(g)(1) was not provided in a clean and dry condition at least daily to employee(s) whose exposure levels, without regard to a respirator, exceeded two hundred micrograms per cubic meter as an eight hour time weighted average:    (a)  On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not provide abrasive blasting personal protective equipment in a clean condition on a daily basis.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to lead; two employees had exposures above 200 ug/m3.  Employees were exposed to lead levels of 236 ug/m3 and 1290 ug/m3.    Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(h)(1):  The employer did not ensure that all surfaces were maintained as free as practicable of accumulations of lead:    (a) On or about February 6, 2020, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that all surfaces were as free as practicable of lead accumulation.  On February 6, 2020, OSHA collected wipe samples from the employee bathroom, drinking fountain, and inside an employee's abrasive blasting hood.  Two wipe samples returned detectable levels of lead: 5.6 ug/100cm2 inside an employee's abrasive blasting hood; 19.11 ug/100 cm2 on the drinking fountain in the part prep room which doubles as the employee break room.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(h)(2)(i): Floors and/or other surfaces where lead accumulates were cleaned by the use of compressed air    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. employees used compressed air to clean surfaces in a manner which could contribute to employee exposure to lead particles.  Employees used compressed air to clean surfaces while the ventilation booth doors were open, reducing the effectiveness of the enclosed system and contributing to the exposure of employees in adjacent work areas.    Abatement note: Abatement certification is required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(i)(3)(i): Employee(s) exposed to lead in excess of the permissible exposure limit (PEL), without regard to the use of respirators, were not required to shower at the end of the work shift:    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were required to shower at the end of the work shift when exposed to lead in excess of the PEL.   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to lead and recorded exceedances of the PEL of 50 ug/m3; two employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 236 ug/m3 and 1290 ug/m3.    Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed by a multi-step process as follows:     1. 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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 1 ABATEMENT DATE (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020    2. Abatement will be completed by the implementation of feasible engineering and/or administrative controls and upon verification of their effectiveness in achieving compliance.    STEP 2 ABATEMENT DATE (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(j)(1)(i): A medical surveillance program was not instituted for all employee(s) who were, or could be exposed to lead above the action level for more that thirty days per year:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not implement a medical surveillance program for employees who could be exposed to lead above the action level of 30 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3).   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to lead and recorded exceedances of the AL of 30 ug/m3; three employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 50 ug/m3, 234 ug/m3, and 1290 ug/m3.  Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1025(l)(1)(i): Employee(s) working in an area where there is potential exposure to airborne lead at any level were not informed of the content of Appendices A and B of 29 CFR 1910.1025:    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees where were exposed to airborne lead were informed of the content of Appendices A and B.   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to lead and recorded 8 hour-Time Weighted Allowances of 50 ug/m3, 234 ug/m3, and 1290 ug/m3.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-06-07 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(c): The employer did not ensure that no employee was exposed to an airborne concentration of cadmium in excess of five micrograms per cubic meter of air (5 ug/m3), calculated as an eight-hour time-weighted average (TWA):    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were protected from the harmful effects of overexposure to cadmium where an exposure exceeded OSHA's permissible exposure limit (PEL).   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to cadmium and recorded exceedances of the PEL of 5 ug/m3; two employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 18 ug/m3 and 61 ug/m3.     Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will normally be completed by a multi-step process 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 (20 DAYS): 07/20/2020    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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020    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 (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(d)(1)(i): The employer did not determine whether any employee was exposed to cadmium at or above the action level:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not conduct an initial determination to evaluate employee exposure to cadmium.  Employees performing blast-cleaning procedures are exposed to cadmium above the action level (AL) of 2.5 ug/m3.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to cadmium and recorded exceedances of the AL; two employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 18 ug/m3 and 61 ug/m3.

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(e)(1): The employer did not establish a regulated area wherever an employee's exposure to airborne concentrations of cadmium was, or could reasonably have been expected to be, in excess of the permissible exposure limit (PEL):    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not establish a regulated area to limit employee exposure cadmium while working in adjoining areas to blast-cleaning enclosures.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to cadmium; two employees had 8-hour TWAs of 18 ug/m3 and 61 ug/m3.     Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed as a multi-step process as follows:     1. 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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 1 ABATEMENT DATE (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020    2. Abatement will be completed by the implementation of feasible engineering and/or administrative controls and upon verification of their effectiveness in achieving compliance.    STEP 2 ABATEMENT DATE (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(f)(2)(i): When the permissible exposure limit (PEL) was exceeded, the employer did not establish and implement a written compliance program to reduce employee exposure to cadmium to or below the PEL by means of engineering and work practice controls:    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not establish and implement a written compliance program to reduce employee exposure to cadmium.  As a result of a lack of a written compliance program as outlined in 1910.1027(f)(2)(i), means to reduce exposures to or below the permissible exposure limit were not established and implemented in the work place.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to cadmium and recorded exceedances of the PEL of 5 ug/m3; two employees had 8-hour TWAs of 18 ug/m3 and 61 ug/m3.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(f)(3)(i): When mechanical ventilation was used to control employee exposure to cadmium, measurements that demonstrated the effectiveness of the system in controlling exposure, such as capture velocity, duct velocity, or static pressure were not taken:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not routinely take measurements of the ventilation system.  The employer did not establish baseline measurements of the ventilation system to ensure it was controlling exposure to cadmium and there were no measurements of the system every three months.     Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item.  (See enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(j)(1): The employer did not provide clean change rooms, hand washing facilities, showers, and lunchroom facilities that complied with 29 CFR 1910.141 for employees whose airborne exposure to cadmium was above the permissible exposure limit (PEL):    (a) On or about February 6, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were provided clean change rooms, handwashing facilities, showers, and lunchroom facilities  where an exposure exceeded OSHA's permissible exposure limit (PEL).   On February 6, 2020, OSHA collected wipe samples from the drinking fountain in the automotive part prep room/employee break room with an analysis result of 0.49 ug/100 cm2.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to cadmium and recorded exceedances of the PEL of 5 ug/m3; two employees had 8-hour TWAs of 18 ug/m3 and 61 ug/m3.      Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed by a multi-step process as follows:     1. 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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 1 ABATEMENT DATE (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020    2. Abatement will be completed by the implementation of feasible engineering and/or administrative controls and upon verification of their effectiveness in achieving compliance.    STEP 2 ABATEMENT DATE (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(k)(1): Surfaces were not maintained as free as practicable of accumulations of cadmium:    (a) On or about February 6, 2020, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that all surfaces were as free as practicable of cadmium accumulation.  On February 6, 2020, OSHA collected wipe samples from the drinking fountain located in the automotive part prep area/employee break room.  Samples taken from the drinking fountain were 0.49 micrograms per 100 centimeters squared.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(l)(1)(i)(A): The employer did not institute a medical surveillance program for all employees who were or potentially were exposed to cadmium at or above the action level on 30 or more days per year (twelve consecutive months):  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not implement a medical surveillance program for employees who were potentially exposed to cadmium at or above the action level (AL) of 2.5 ug/m3.   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to cadmium and recorded exceedances of the AL: two employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 18 ug/m3 and 61 ug/m3.   Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances C141

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1027(m)(4)(i): The employer did not institute a training program for all employees who were potentially exposed to cadmium, ensure employee participation in the program, and maintain a record of the contents of such program:    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were trained on the harmful effects of overexposure to cadmium, where employees were potentially exposed to cadmium.   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to cadmium and recorded exceedances of the PEL of 5 ug/m3; two employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 18 ug/m3 and 61 ug/m3.     Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 0260

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1018(e)(2): Initial monitoring was not performed for each workplace, or work operation covered by 29 CFR 1910.1018 to accurately determine the airborne concentration of inorganic arsenic to which employees may be exposed:  (a)  On or about March 13, 2020, initial monitoring of Blast-Tech Inc. employees was not performed to accurately determine the airborne concentration of inorganic arsenic while performing tasks such as abrasive blast-cleaning operations.  Employees perform abrasive blast-cleaning on a variety of metal objects, primarily automotive parts.  On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to arsenic and recorded exposure to arsenic; two employees had 8 hour-TWAs of 2 ug/m3 and 9 ug/m3.

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 0260

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1018(j)(1): Where the possibility of skin or eye irritation from inorganic arsenic existed and/or for all workers who worked in regulated areas, the employer did not provide, at no cost, to the employee and did not ensure that employees used the appropriate protective work clothing and equipment:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were protected from the harmful effects of overexposure to arsenic where the potential for skin or eye irritation exists.  Employees clean used media from parts using compressed air.  While cleaning parts, employees are not wearing appropriate protective work clothing.  Employees wear protective coveralls that do not completely cover street clothes.  Employees wear an N95 face mask but do not wear eye protection, exposing skin, eyes, and street clothes to contaminated media containing arsenic particles.  Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 0260

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1018(k)(5): Periodic cleaning of inorganic arsenic dust collection and ventilation equipment and checks of their effectiveness were not carried out to maintain the effectiveness of the system:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not routinely take measurements of the ventilation system.  The employer did not establish baseline measurements of the ventilation system to ensure it was controlling exposure to arsenic and there were no measurements of the system on a periodic basis to maintain effectiveness of the system.   Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item.  (See enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-04-21 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 0260

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1018(m)(1): Clean change rooms equipped with storage facilities for street clothes and separate storage facilities for protective clothing and equipment, in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.141(e), were not provided for employees working in regulated areas or in areas subject to the possibility of skin or eye irritation from inorganic arsenic:    (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were protected from the harmful effects of exposure to arsenic by installing facilities to give employees access to clean change rooms when the potential for skin or eye irritation exists.  While cleaning parts, employees wear protective coveralls that do not completely cover street clothes.  Employees wear an N95 face mask but do not wear eye protection, exposing skin, eyes, and street clothes to contaminated media containing arsenic particles.    Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed as a multi-step process as follows:     1. 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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 1 ABATEMENT DATE (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020      2. Effective personal protective equipment 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 2 ABATEMENT DATE (40 DAYS): 08/17/2020     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 (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 0260

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1018(n)(1)(i)(A): A medical surveillance program was not instituted for all employees who were or will be exposed to inorganic arsenic in excess of the action level, without regard to the use of respirators, at least 30 days per year:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not implement a medical surveillance program for employees who were potentially exposed to inorganic arsenic at or above the action level (AL) of 5 ug/m3.   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to arsenic and recorded exceedances of the AL: one employee's 8-hour time weighted exposure was calculated at 9 ug/m3.   Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-06 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 0260

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1018(o)(1)(i): A training program was not instituted for each employee who is subject to inorganic arsenic exposure above the action level, without regard to respirator use, or for whom there is a possibility of skin or eye irritation from inorganic arsenic:  (a) On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that employees performing blast-cleaning procedures were trained on the harmful effects of exposure to inorganic arsenic, where employees were potentially exposed to inorganic arsenic above the action level (AL) and where the possibility of skin or eye irritation exists.   On March 13, 2020, OSHA measured employee exposure to inorganic arsenic and recorded an exceedance of the AL of 5 ug/m3 with results of 9 ug/m3. Employees clean used media from parts using compressed air.  While cleaning parts, employees wear an N95 face mask but do not wear eye protection, exposing skin and eyes to the potential of irritation from contaminated media containing arsenic particles.  Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2021-06-07 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 0731152018409130

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1000(a)(2): Employee(s) were exposed to airborne concentrations of materials listed in Table Z-1 in excess of the 8 hour Time Weighted Average (TWA) concentrations:    (a)  On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. employees were exposed to airborne concentrations of iron oxide in excess of the 8 hour Time Weighted Average concentration of 10 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3).  Employees performing blast-cleaning operations were exposed to an 8 hour TWA of 166 mg/m3.    (b)  On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. employees were exposed to airborne concentrations of nickel in excess of the 8 hour TWA concentration of 1 mg/m3.  Employees performing blast-cleaning operations were exposed to an 8 hour TWA of 3.87 mg/m3.    (c)  On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. employees were exposed to airborne concentrations of copper in excess of the 8 hour TWA concentration of 0.1 mg/m3.  Employees performing blast-cleaning operations were exposed to an 8 hour TWA of 18.3 mg/m3.    (d)  On or about March 13, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. employees were exposed to airborne concentrations of respirable Particles Not Otherwise Regulated in excess of the 8 hour TWA concentration of 5 mg/m3.  Employees performing blast-cleaning operations were exposed to an 8 hour TWA of 19.0 mg/m3.    Abatement Note:  Abatement of this item will be completed by a multi-step process as follows:     1. 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 shall 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 design;  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 proposed 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 1 ABATEMENT DATE (20 DAYS):  7/20/2020      2. 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 2 ABATEMENT DATE (40 DAYS): 08/17/2020    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 (120 DAYS):  12/11/2020 (Progress reports will be submitted to the Area Director every 30 days, concluding on 12/11/20)

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-09-18 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.106(d)(2)(i): Approved containers and/or portable tanks were not used for the storage of flammable liquids:   (a) On or about January 28, 2020, Blast-Tech Inc. employees were potentially exposed to fire hazards and illness from exposure to flammable vapors due to approved containers not being used for storage of flammable liquids.  Two IBC totes were used to store flammable liquid mixtures which included but not limited to methyl alcohol.  The totes had the tops cut off and were covered with plywood pallets, resulting in potential employee exposure to vapors generated in the container.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $4048.00 · Current $2024.00 Reduced

Hazardous substances 02600685073115201591

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(c)(1): A written respiratory protection program that included the provisions in 29 CFR 1910.134(c)(1)(i) - (ix) with worksite specific procedures was not established and implemented for required respirator use:    (a) On or about January 24, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. employees were exposed to respiratory hazards due to lack of a written program detailing procedures for a workplace specific Respiratory Protection Program.  Employees wear supplied air line and filtering face-piece respirators for hazardous substances including but not limited to: respirable dust containing crystalline silica, lead, cadmium, and arsenic.  Employees were not: medically evaluated prior to use of a respirator; fit-tested prior to wearing tight-fitting respirators and annually thereafter; or trained on use, maintenance, storage and limitations of respirators.  Respirators were not inspected prior to use, resulting in use of supplied air line respirators which had cracked or worn hoses.    Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(e)(1): The employer did not provide a medical evaluation to determine the employee's ability to use a respirator, before the employee was fit tested or required to use the respirator in the workplace (Note:  The employer may discontinue an employee's medical evaluations when the employee is no longer required to use a respirator):  (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. did not provide medical evaluations to determine employees' ability to use respirators prior to wear of the respirator in the workplace.  Employees wear supplied air line respirators with blasting hoods and N95 respirators while performing abrasive blast cleaning tasks.  Use of respirators may potentially aggravate pre-existing medical conditions, including but not limited to: asthma or other lung diseases; cardiovascular health issues; skin irritation, rashes, and other dermal issues; and claustrophobia or anxiety.  Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-10-13 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 02600731159118402610

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(f)(1): The employer did not ensure that employee(s) required to use a tight-fitting facepiece respirator passed the appropriate qualitative fit test (QLFT) or quantitative fit test (QNFT):    (a) On or about January 24, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. employees were exposed to respiratory hazards due to employees wearing a tight-fitting respirator without having been evaluated for fit using the appropriate QLFT or QNFT.  Employees wear N95 masks while sweeping and shoveling used blasting media or using compressed air to remove residue from cleaned parts.      Abatement Note: Abatement certification and corrective action are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(h)(2)(i): Respirators were not stored to protect them from damage, contamination, dust, sunlight, extreme temperatures, excessive moisture, and damaging chemicals or  were not packed or stored to prevent deformation of the facepiece and exhalation valve:    (a) On or about January 24, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. employees were not provided the means to store respirators to protect them from damage or contamination.  Employees wear supplied air line respirators with abrasive blasting hoods when performing blast cleaning tasks.  Hoses were observed in poor condition, leading to leaks in the air line.  Employees wear N95 respirators while cleaning with compressed air or recovering used media with brooms and shovels.  Employees did not dispose of N95 respirators after use.  N95 respirators and abrasive blasting hoods were stored on surfaces which had visible accumulation of used blasting media.     Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-09-18 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 02600731159118402610

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(h)(3)(i)(A): Respirators used in routine situations were not inspected before each use and during cleaning:  (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. did not require employees to inspect respirators before each use.  Blast-Tech Inc. did not provide adequate facilities for employees to clean respirators on a regular basis.  Employees wear supplied air line respirators with abrasive blasting hoods while performing abrasive blast cleaning of automotive parts.  Air line respirator parts were found to be in poor condition with hoses that were cracked and repaired with duct tape.  Employees are not provided the means to clean abrasive blasting hoods on a regular basis.  Wipe samples taken from inside an employee's abrasive blasting hood returned results for lead, copper, iron oxide, and zinc oxide.  Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 02600731159118402610

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(k)(1): The employer did not ensure that each employee can demonstrate knowledge of items in (i)-(vii):    (a) On or about January 24, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. employees were not trained on items listed in 1910.134(k)(1), including but not limited to: why the respirator is necessary, ensuring proper fit during use, limitations and capabilities of the respirator, and procedures for maintaining and storing respirators.    Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances D175

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.138(a): The employer did not select and require employee(s) to use appropriate hand protection when employees' hands were exposed to hazards such as those from skin absorption of harmful substances; severe cuts or lacerations; severe abrasion; punctures; chemical burns; thermal burns; and harmful temperature extremes.    (a) On or about January 24, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech Inc. employees were exposed to adverse health effects such as skin irritation or chemical burns while using Coral Chemical Company COR ADD EP to remove chrome or powder coating from parts prior to abrasive blast cleaning.  The label for COR ADD EP on a 55 gallon drum lists dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid as an ingredient.  The label also contains a pictogram for corrosive hazards.  Employees are provided nitrile rubber gloves but are not required to wear them.  Nitrile rubber gloves do not provide adequate protection for dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid.    Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 166090009130D175

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.132(d)(1): The employer did not assess the workplace to determine if hazards are present, or are likely to be present, which necessitate the use of personal protective equipment (PPE):    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not conduct an assessment of the workplace to determine if hazards may be present which necessitate the use of PPE.  Due to lack of an assessment, employees may be exposed to hazards while performing tasks including but not limited to: using compressed air to remove blasting media from parts; or placing and removing parts in IBC totes containing flammable vapors and corrosive liquid.    Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $4048.00 · Current $2024.00 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(1): Employer had not developed or implemented a written hazard communication program included the requirements outlined in 29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(1)(i) and (e)(1)(ii):     (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not develop and implement a written hazard communication program.  Employees are exposed to hazardous elements such as lead, cadmium, dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid, and methyl alcohol.  Lead has significant adverse health effects: acute overexposure can result in acute encephalopathy, seizures, coma, and death; chronic exposure can result in severe damage to the blood-forming, nervous, urinary, and reproductive systems.  Cadmium has significant adverse health effects: acute exposure may result in pulmonary edema, asphyxia, or death; chronic exposure may result in kidney damage and an increased risk of cancer of the lung and of the prostate.  Dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid is corrosive and ingestion can cause severe swelling and possible perforation of the stomach or esophagus.  Prolonged exposure to methyl alcohol can cause defatting of the skin as well as adverse health effects to the kidneys, liver, and central nervous system.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1660D175

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(6)(ii): Except as provided in 29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(7) and 29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(8), the employer did not ensure that each container of hazardous chemicals in the workplace was labeled, tagged or marked with the product identifier and words, pictures, symbols, or combination thereof, which provide at least general information regarding the hazards of the chemicals and which, in conjunction with the other information immediately available to employees under the hazard communication program, would provide employees with the specific information regarding the physical and health hazards of the hazardous chemical:    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not ensure that containers of hazardous chemicals were labeled with general information of the hazards of chemicals contained within.  Two 275 gallon IBC totes and several 55 gallon drums and five gallon containers were stacked in the prep area which contained a mixture of methyl alcohol and dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid.  Dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid is corrosive and ingestion can cause severe swelling and possible perforation of the stomach or esophagus.  Prolonged exposure to methyl alcohol can cause defatting of the skin as well as adverse health effects to the kidneys, liver, and central nervous system.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances D175

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(g)(1): Employers did not have a safety data sheet in the workplace for each hazardous chemical which they use:    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not have safety data sheets in the workplace for hazardous chemicals such as COR ADD EP and CORSTRIP SP, both produced by Coral Chemical Company.  COR ADD EP contains dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid which is corrosive and ingestion can cause severe swelling and possible perforation of the stomach or esophagus.  CORSTRIP SP contains methyl alcohol which can cause defatting of the skin as well as adverse health effects to the kidneys, liver, and central nervous system.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-08-14 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances D175

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(h)(1): Employees were not provided effective information and training on hazardous chemicals in their work area at the time of their initial assignment and whenever a new hazard that the employees had not been previously trained about was introduced into their work area:    (a) On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, Blast-Tech, Inc. did not provide employees training on hazardous chemicals in the work area.  Employees were working with or near Coral Chemical Company products COR ADD EP and CORSTRIP SP.  COR ADD EP contains dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid which is corrosive and ingestion can cause severe swelling and possible perforation of the stomach or esophagus.  CORSTRIP SP contains methyl alcohol which can cause defatting of the skin as well as adverse health effects to the kidneys, liver, and central nervous system.    Abatement note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).

Issued

2020-06-19 00:00:00

Abate by

2020-09-18 00:00:00

Penalty

Initial $0.00 · Current $0.00

Hazardous substances 1660

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(h)(3)(i): The employee training did not include the methods and observations used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical in the work area:  (a)  On or about January 28, 2020, and at times prior, employees were exposed methyl alcohol vapors while placing parts in partially filled 275 IBC totes and were not trained in any system or method to detect the presence of hazardous concentrations of the vapors in the work area.     Abatement Note:  Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item.  (See enclosed Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet).