OSHA Inspection: SOUTHERN INDUSTRIAL CHEMICALS, INC.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $4,610 · Current $4,610

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.22(b): The employer did not ensure that each walking-working surface can support the maximum intended load for that surface.  a) Roof of the Chemistry Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees are required to go on the roof of the chemistry lab to turn the water to production on and off as well as to retrieve containers to fulfill production orders while the roof of the lab contains soft spots from water damage causing the surface the inability to withstand additional weight. There are areas on the roof and the ceiling of the chemistry lab where items have fallen through.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.22(c): The employer did not provide, and ensure each employee uses, a safe means of access and egress to and from walking-working surfaces.   a) Ladder Used to Access the Chemistry Lab Roof; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees were required to use a movable ladder with handrails that go on both sides to the top of the ladder to access the roof of the chemistry lab to collect supplies and turn the production water on and off.  a) Stairway for Hazardous Wastewater Treatment Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees are required to go up to the wastewater treatment tank without having a stairway landing to safely gain access to the platform where the tank is located.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.23(c)(9): The employer did not ensure that portable ladders that are used on slippery surfaces are secured and stabilized.  a) Extension Ladder against Phosphoric Acid Holding Tank in Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees are allowed to use an extension ladder approximately 13-foot 1 inch in height to check the levels of the holding tanks on a slippery floor created by chemical residues.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.28(b)(1)(i): Unprotected sides and edges.  (i) Except as provided elsewhere in this section, the employer must ensure that each employee on a walking-working surface with an unprotected side or edge that is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level is protected from falling by one or more of the following:  a) Roof of the Chemistry Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees are required to go on the roof of the chemistry lab to turn the water to production on and off as well as to retrieve containers to fulfill production orders while the roof of the lab does not contain guardrails.  b) Powder Tank Platform; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees are required to go onto the platform to produce chemical batches, in which the sides of the platform are left unguarded on certain sections leaving a fall of more than 4 feet to the ground level.  c) Wastewater Tank Platform; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees are required to go onto the platform to produce chemical batches, in which the sides of the platform are left unguarded on certain sections leaving a fall of more than 4 feet to the ground level.  d) Cleaner Tank Platform; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees are required to go onto the platform to produce chemical batches, in which the sides of the platform are left unguarded on certain sections leaving a fall of more than 4 feet to the ground level.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.28(b)(3)(i)(A): The employer did not ensure that each employee on a walking-working surface was protected from falling into any hole or pit that was 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level by a cover or covers:  a) Water Pit in Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees were required to dump hazardous waste into a water pit and collect water from the water holding tank located above the water pit which did not contain a covering over the water pit that was approximately 4 feet deep.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.28(b)(11)(i): The employer did not ensure that each employee exposed to an unprotected side or edge of a stairway landing that is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level is protected by a guardrail or stair rail system.  a) Powder Tank in the Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that; the upper landing of the stairs did not have a guardrail installed. The staircase is 10 feet in height.  b) Hazardous Wastewater Treatment Tank in the Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that; the upper landing of the stairs did not have a guardrail installed.  The staircase is 8 feet in height.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.28(c): Protection from falling objects.  When an employee is exposed to falling objects, the employer did not ensure that each employee wears head protection that meets the requirements of 29 CFR part 1910, subpart I.  In addition, the employer must protect employees from falling objects by implementing one or more of the following:  a) Ceiling in Production Area; On or about August 23, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to struck-by hazards, in that portions of the ceiling in the production area fall either hitting or nearly missing employees who work in the production area compounding chemical batches.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,250 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.120(j)(1)(ii): Drums and containers used during the clean-up did not meet the appropriate DOT, OSHA, and EPA regulations for the wastes that they contain.  a) Production Floor: On or about August 22, 2023, and times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer modified hazardous waste containers from the original manufacturer's specifications, such as cutting the top portion of a 250-gallon totes off, to contain hazardous waste.  b) a) Production Area: On or About August 22, 2023, and at times prior employees were exposed to a fire and chemical hazard, in that the employer did not provide employees with a safe and effective way of cleaning up hazardous waste chemicals while employees are shop vacuuming up acids and Chromium (VI) flakes.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,250 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.120(q)(1): The employer did not develop and implement an emergency response plan to handle anticipated emergencies prior to commencement of emergency response operations:  a) Production Floor: On or about August 22, 2023, and times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer has not provided an effective spill containment program for employees conducting spill cleanup of chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Caustic Soda, and Sulfuric Acid.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,250 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.120(q)(2)(v): The emergency response plan did not address, to the extent not addressed elsewhere, site security and control:  a) Production Floor: On or about August 22, 2023, and times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer has not provided an effective site control program for employees conducting hazardous waste cleanup for chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Caustic Soda, and Sulfuric Acid.  b) Production Area near Holding Tanks; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical and slip hazards, in that employees are required to clean chemical spills without isolating the hazardous chemical prior to cleaning the spill. The chemicals, which are the most common to spill are Phosphoric Acid, Caustic Soda, and Sulfuric Acid.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.120(q)(6): Training. Training shall be based on the duties and function to be performed by each responder of an emergency response organization. The skill and knowledge levels required for all new responders, those hired after the effective date of this standard, shall be conveyed to them through training before they are permitted to take part in actual emergency operations on an incident.   a) Production Floor: On or about August 22, 2023, and times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employees cleaned up approximately 6,000 gallons of caustic soda without receiving training on hazardous substance response.  b) Production Area near Holding Tanks; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical and slip hazards, in that employees are required to clean chemical spills without receiving the proper training to safely clean chemical spills.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

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) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to respiratory hazards, in that the employer has not established or implemented a written respiratory program and requires employees to wear a full-face elastomeric respirator when compounding chemicals, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chromium, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, and caustic soda by the employer, who does not have a respiratory program.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

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 employee's ability to use a respirator, before the employee was fit tested or required to use the respirator in the workplace:  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to respiratory hazards, in that employees are given full face elastomeric respirators to use when compounding chemicals, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chromium, without receiving a medical evaluation prior to using a full-face elastomeric respirator.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

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) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to respiratory hazards, in that employees are given full face elastomeric respirators to use when compounding chemicals, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chromium, without receiving a fit test prior to using a full-face elastomeric respirator.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(g)(1)(i)(A): Respirators with tight-fitting facepieces were worn by employees who had facial hair that came between the sealing surface of the facepiece and the face or that interfered with valve function:  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to respiratory hazards, in that employees are given full face elastomeric respirators to use when compounding chemicals, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chromium, employees who wear the tight-fitting full face elastomeric respirators have facial hair that disrupts the seal between the respirator and their face.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(h)(1): Respirators were not cleaned and disinfected using the procedures in Appendix B-2 of 29 CFR 1910.134 or equivalent procedures recommended by the respirator manufacturer:  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to respiratory hazards, in that employees are given full face elastomeric respirators to use when compounding chemicals, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chromium and are not required to clean and disinfect the respirators.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,250 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(k)(1)(iv): The employer did not ensure that each user could demonstrate knowledge of how to inspect, put on, remove, use, and check the seals of the respirator:  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to respiratory hazards, in that employees are given full face elastomeric respirators to use when compounding chemicals, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chromium, without receiving training on how to inspect, put on, and check the seals prior to using a full-face elastomeric respirator.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.134(k)(1)(v):The employer did not ensure that each user could demonstrate knowledge of the procedures for respirator maintenance and storage:  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to respiratory hazards, in that employees are given full face elastomeric respirators to use when compounding chemicals, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chromium, without receiving training on storage, when to change cartridges and what cartridge is required based on the compound mixtures prior to using a full-face elastomeric respirator.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

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) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that employees were not required to wear chemical resistant gloves when required to work with hazardous chemicals,, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chrome, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, and caustic soda.  b) Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that employees were not required to wear chemical resistant gloves when required to work with hazardous chemicals,, such as but not limited to, hexavalent chrome, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, and caustic soda.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.141(e): Where employees were required by a particular standard to wear protective clothing because of the possibility of contamination with toxic materials, the employer did not provide change rooms equipped with storage facilities for street clothes.  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not provide a separate change room with separate storage facilities for employee's contaminated protective clothing and their street clothing after batching chromium phosphate. Employees were exposed to hexavalent chromium at levels that exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(i)(1): The employer did not provide change rooms, in conformance with the Sanitation standard, 29 CFR 1910.141, for employees who were required to change their clothes to use protective clothing and equipment for chromium (VI) exposures:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not provide a separate change room for employee's contaminated protective clothing and their street clothing after batching chromium phosphate. Employees were exposed to hexavalent chromium at levels that exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(i)(2): The employer did not ensure that change room facilities at a worksite with chromium (VI) exposures prevented cross-contamination:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not ensure that the change room facilities prevent cross contamination for employee's equipment and street clothing after batching chromium phosphate. Employees were exposed to hexavalent chromium at levels that exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $11,983

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.146(c)(1): The employer did not evaluate the workplace to determine if any spaces were permit-required confined spaces:  a) Production Area- Powder Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that employees were required to enter the powder tank to perform cleaning and maintenance without the employer performing an evaluation to determine if any hazards were present.  b) Production Area- Cleaner Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical and entrapment hazards, in that employees were required to enter the powder tank to perform cleaning and maintenance without the employer performing an evaluation to determine if any hazards were present.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.146(c)(2):The employer did not inform exposed employees, by posting danger signs or by any other equally effective means, of the existence and location of and the danger posed by the permit spaces:  a) Production Area- Powder Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that employees were required to enter the powder tank to perform cleaning and maintenance without the employer posting permit confined space signs indicating hazards.   b) Production Area- Cleaner Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that employees were required to enter the powder tank to perform cleaning and maintenance without the employer posting permit confined space signs indicating hazards.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.146(c)(4): The employer decided that its employees will enter permit spaces, the employer did not develop and implement a written permit space program that complies with this section. The written program shall be available for inspection by employees and their authorized representatives.  a) Production Area- Powder Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that employees were required to enter the powder tank to perform cleaning and maintenance without the employer did not develop and implement a written permit space entry program.  b) Production Area- Cleaner Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that employees were required to enter the powder tank to perform cleaning and maintenance without the employer did not develop and implement a written permit space entry program.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.146(e)(1): Before entry is authorized, the employer did not document the completion of measures required by paragraph (d)(3) of this section by preparing an entry permit.   a) Production Area- Powder Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that an entry permit was completed when employees were required to enter the powder tank to perform weekly cleaning duties and maintenance.  b) Production Area- Cleaner Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that an entry permit was completed when employees were required to enter the cleaner tank to perform weekly cleaning duties and maintenance.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.146(g)(1): The employer did not provide training so that all employees whose work is regulated by this section acquire the understanding, knowledge, and skills necessary for the safe performance of the duties assigned under this section.  a) Production Area- Powder Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that employees who are required to enter, clean, and maintenance the Powder Tank were not trained in the hazards of permit confined spaces and the skills necessary to mitigate them.  b) Production Area- Cleaner Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to chemical, entrapment and struck-by hazards, in that employees who are required to enter, clean, and maintenance the Cleaner Tank were not trained in the hazards of permit confined spaces and the skills necessary to mitigate them.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.147(c)(1): The employer did not establish a program consisting of an energy control procedure, employee training and periodic inspections to ensure that before any employee performed any servicing or maintenance on a machine or equipment where the unexpected energizing, startup or release of stored energy could occur and cause injury, the machine or equipment shall be isolated from the energy source and rendered inoperative:  a) Production Area- Powder Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to struck-by hazards, in that the employer has not established a lockout/tagout program for employees who are required to apply lockout/tagout to the powder tank agitator prior to entering for cleaning and maintenance of the tank.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.151(c): Where employees were exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body were not provided within the work area for immediate emergency use:  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the saline bottles to flush the eyes in the production area are not kept clean and free of debris, causing additional hazards to the eyes of employees if used.  b) Outside Production Area and Chemistry Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the portable eye wash station to flush the eyes is not kept clean and free of debris, causing additional hazards to the eyes of employees if used.  c) Chemistry Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer has not provided employees a mean to flush their eyes and body when exposed to corrosive chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric and Sulfuric Acid.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.176(b): Secure storage. Storage of material shall not create a hazard. Bags, containers, bundles, etc., stored in tiers shall be stacked, blocked, interlocked and limited in height so that they are stable and secure against sliding or collapse.  a) Production Area- Storage Racks; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to struck-by hazards, in that chemical drums and pallets are not stacked onto storage racks in a secure manner, resulting in pallets and drums hanging off the side of the storage racks.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.178(l)(5): Avoidance of duplicative training. If an operator has previously received training in a topic specified in paragraph (l)(3) of this section, and such training is appropriate to the truck and working conditions encountered, additional training in that topic is not required if the operator has been evaluated and found competent to operate the truck safely.  a) Production Area; On or about August 23, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to struck-by hazards, in that the employees who are required to operate a forklift to complete daily work duties were not provided forklift training by the employer.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.178(m)(5)(i): When a powered industrial truck is left unattended, load engaging means were not fully lowered, controls were not neutralized, power was not shut off, and brakes set.  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to struck-by hazards, in that; propane forklift was left turned on and unattended by the operator while dumping hexavalent chrome into a batch tank.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $3,750 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.178(n)(4): Industrial truck driver(s) were not required to travel with the load trailing whenever the load obstructed forward view:  a) Production Area; On or about August 23, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to struck-by hazards, in that the employees are required to transport drums and totes of hazardous chemicals such as, but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid that is stacked too high and obstructs the operator's view when driving forward.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.212(b): Machine(s) designed for fixed location(s) were not securely anchored to prevent walking or moving:  a) Laboratory Closet: On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employees were exposed to struck-by hazards, in that the Portable Band Saw was not stationed on a leveled surface or mounted in such a way to protect employees from collapse of the Portable Band Saw while in operation.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.213(i)(1): All portions of the saw blade were not enclosed or guarded, except for the working portion of the blade between the bottom of the guide rolls and the table. Bandsaw wheels shall be fully encased. The outside periphery of the enclosure shall be solid. The front and back of the band wheels shall be either enclosed by solid material or by wire mesh or perforated metal. Such mesh or perforated metal shall be not less than 0.037 inch (U.S. Gage No. 20), and the openings shall be not greater than three-eighths inch. Solid material used for this purpose shall be of an equivalent strength and firmness. The guard for the portion of the blade between the sliding guide and the upper-saw-wheel guard shall protect the saw blade at the front and outer side. This portion of the guard shall be self-adjusting to raise and lower with the guide. The upper-wheel guard shall be made to conform to the travel of the saw on the wheel.  a) Band Saw in Lab Closet; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to laceration hazards, in that the Ryobi band saw used by employees to collect samples for laboratory testing did not contain a guard around the blade.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $4,610 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.213(i)(3): Feed rolls of band resaws were not protected with a suitable guard to prevent the hands of the operator from coming in contact with the in-running rolls at any point. The guard shall be constructed of heavy material, preferably metal, and the edge of the guard shall come to within three-eighths inch of the plane formed by the inside face of the feed roll in contact with the stock being cut.  a) Band Saw in Lab Closet; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to laceration hazards, in that the Ryobi band saw used by employees to collect samples for laboratory testing did not contain a guard around the feed rolls.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $1,204 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.303(b)(2): Listed or labeled electrical equipment was not used or installed in accordance with instructions included in the listing or labeling:  a) Production Area- Water Holding Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to electrical hazards, in that relocatable power taps are permanently mounted on the face and on top of the water holding tank platform.  b) Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to electrical hazards, in that relocatable power taps are sitting on the laboratory counters next to combustible material is being used as a fixed wiring substitute for laboratory equipment, such as but not limited to, hot plates, scales, and adonizing bath.  c) Closet in Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to electrical hazards, in that relocatable power taps are being utilized to provide power to the ceiling light, band saw, scales, and hair dryer as a fixed wire substitute.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.303(b)(6): Deteriorating agents. Unless identified for use in the operating environment, no conductors or equipment shall be located in damp or wet locations; where exposed to gases, fumes, vapors, liquids, or other agents that have a deteriorating effect on the conductors or equipment; or were exposed to excessive temperatures.  a) Production Area: On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employer exposed employees to electrical hazards, in that the employer has not provided the appropriate electrical outlets for employees working around vapors and fumes in the production area.  b) Laboratory Area: On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, employer exposed employees to electrical hazards, in that the employer did not provide the appropriate electrical outlets for employees in the laboratory who work with corrosive and other hazardous gases, fumes, vapors, and liquids.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(c): Employees were exposed to an airborne concentration of chromium (VI) which exceeded 5 micrograms per cubic meter of air, as an 8-hour time-weighted average:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.0186 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.0139 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(f)(1)(i): Feasible engineering controls and work practices were not instituted to reduce and maintain employee exposures to chromium (VI) at or below the permissible exposure limit:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior,  the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.0186 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.0139 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.1026(d)(1): The employer with a workplace or work operation covered by this standard did not determine the 8-hour time-weighted average exposure for each employee exposed to chromium (VI):  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.0186 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.0139 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(e)(1): The employer did not establish a regulated area wherever an employee's exposure to airborne concentrations of chromium (VI) was, or could reasonably be expected to be, in excess of the permissible exposure limit:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.0186 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.1026(g)(2): The employer did not institute a respiratory protection program in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.134 when respirator usage is required for work operations where employees are exposed to chromium (VI) above the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for fewer than 30 days a year:   a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer did not require the use of a respirator when employees were batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period on October 18, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(h)(1): A hazard was present or was likely to be present from skin or eye contact with chromium (VI); however, the employer did not provide appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment at no cost to employees, and/or did not ensure that employees used such clothing and equipment:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer did not enforce employees to wear chemical resistant gloves and protective clothing when required to batch chromium phosphate.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $3,000 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(h)(2)(i): The employer did not ensure that employees removed all protective clothing and equipment contaminated with chromium (VI) at the end of the work shift or at the completion of their tasks involving chromium (VI) exposure, whichever came first:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer did not require employees to remove contaminated clothing after batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $3,000 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(i)(3)(ii): The employer did not ensure that employees who had skin contact with chromium (VI) wash their hands and faces at the end of the work shift and/or prior to eating, drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco or gum, applying cosmetics, or using the toilet:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not require employees, who are exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3 exceeding the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times, to wash their hands and face after batching chromium phosphate.   b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that does not require employees, who are exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3 exceeding the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times, to wash their hands and face after batching chromium phosphate.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(i)(4)(ii): The employer did not ensure that surface chromium (VI) was removed from protective clothing and equipment by methods that did not disperse chromium (VI) into the air or onto an employee's body:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not ensure that hexavalent chromium from the surface of employee's clothes and protective equipment is removed. Employees are required to batch chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $0 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(i)(5): The employer does not prohibit eating, drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco or gum, or applying cosmetics in regulated areas, or in areas where skin or eye contact with chromium (VI) occurs; or carry the products associated with these activities, or store such products in these areas:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer allows employees to consume food and beverage as well as smoke tobacco within regulated areas of hexavalent chromium. Employees batch chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period on October 18, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $3,000 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(j)(2)(i): The employer did not ensure that surfaces contaminated with chromium (VI) were cleaned by high efficiency particulate air-filtered vacuuming or other methods that minimized the likelihood of exposure to chromium (VI):  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that surfaces in the production area, where employees were exposed to hexavalent chromium exceeding the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3, were cleaned to minimize the exposure to hexavalent chromium after employees were required to batch chromium phosphate.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $3,000 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.1026(j)(3)(i):The employer did not ensure that waste, scrap, debris, and any other materials contaminated with chromium (VI) and cosigned for disposal were collected and disposed of in sealed, impermeable bags or other closed, impermeable containers:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer did not require employees to dispose of chromium (IV) contaminated towels, nitrile gloves, and other waste in a sealed and impermeable container after employees batched chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at levels that exceed the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(j)(3)(ii): The employer did not ensure that bags or containers of waste, scrap, debris, and any other materials contaminated with chromium (VI) and cosigned for disposal were labeled in accordance with the requirements of the Hazard Communication standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer did not require employees to dispose of contaminated chromium (IV) towels, nitrile gloves, and other waste in a labeled container after employees batched chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA level that exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL).

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.1026(k)(1)(i)(A):The employer did not make medical surveillance available for all employees who were or could be occupationally exposed to chromium (VI) at or above the action level for 30 or more days a year:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not offer medical surveillance available to employees who are required to batched chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period on October 18, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(l)(1)(i): The employer did not ensure that all employees who were assigned to workplaces where there was exposure to chromium (VI) were provided with information and training as required by the Hazard Communication standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not provide employees with training and information regarding Chromium (IV) and exposures, when employees are required to batched chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(l)(1)(ii): The employer did not address at least the following hazards with employees exposed to hexavalent chromium: Cancer, eye irritation, and skin sensitization:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not train employees on hazards associated with exposure to Chromium (IV), when employees are required to batched chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period on October 18, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.1026(l)(1)(iii):The employer had not included chromium (VI) in the hazard communication program, established to comply with the Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200, ensured that each employee had access to labels on containers of chromium (VI) and to safety data sheets, and was trained in accordance with the requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard and 29 CFR 1910.1026(l)(2), including the contents of the Hexavalent Chromium Standard, the purpose and a description of the medical surveillance program, and made copies of this standard available to all affected employees:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not have a Chromium (IV) section to the company's Hazard Communication program, when employees are required to batched chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period on October 18, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(1): Employer had not implemented a written hazard communication program which at included the requirements outlined in 29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(1)(i) and (e)(1)(ii):  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at time prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer had not implemented the company's Hazard Communication program where employees are required to batch hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Sulfuric acid Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, and Hydro sulfuric Acid.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(1)(i): The hazard communication program did not include a list of hazardous chemicals known to be present using a product identifier that was referenced on the appropriate safety data sheet:  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at time prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer did not include a list of hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Sulfuric acid Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, and Hydro sulfuric Acid in the company's Hazard Communication which employees are required to use to produce batches for production.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.1200(f)(6)(ii): 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) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at time prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that containers of hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Sulfuric acid Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, and Hydro sulfuric Acid were labeled with the chemical's name as well as the health and physical hazards associated with the chemical.  b) Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at time prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that containers of hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Sulfuric acid Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, and Hydro sulfuric Acid were labeled with the chemical's name as well as the health and physical hazards associated with the chemical.  c) Shelves outside of Lab; On or about August 22, 2023, and at time prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that containers of hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Sulfuric acid Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, and Hydro sulfuric Acid were labeled with the chemical's name as well as the health and physical hazards associated with the chemical.  d) Production Floor: On or about August 22, 2023, and times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer has not provided chemical identification on containers that contained hazardous waste.  e) Production Area: On or About August 22, 2023, and at times prior employees were exposed to a fire and chemical hazard, in that the employer did not provide employees with a safe and effective way of cleaning up hazardous waste chemicals.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(l)(2)(i)(A): The employer did not provide appropriate information and training for all employees exposed to chromium (VI), in that employees could not demonstrate knowledge of the contents of the Chromium (VI) standard, 29 CFR 1910.1026:  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not provide information or training regarding Chromium (IV) standard, 20 CFR 1910.1026 to all employees who are required to batch chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period on October 18, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(l)(2)(i)(B): The employer did not provide appropriate information and training for all employees exposed to chromium (VI) in that employees could not demonstrate knowledge of the purpose and description of the requirements for a medical surveillance program as outlined by the Chromium (VI) standard, 29 CFR 1910.1026(k):  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not provide information regarding Chromium (IV) to all employees who are required to batched chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period on October 18, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1026(l)(2)(ii): The employer did not make a copy of the Chromium (VI) standard, 29 CFR 1910.1026, readily available to all employees who were exposed to chromium (VI):  a) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that the employer does not provide the Chromium (IV) standard, 20 CFR 1910.1026 to all employees who are required to batched chromium phosphate and were exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.019 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 3.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 470-minute sampling period on October 11, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.  b) Production Area- Hexavalent Chrome Tank; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hexavalent chromium hazards, in that an employee was batching chromium phosphate and was exposed to hexavalent chromium at an 8-hour TWA of 0.014 mg/m3. This level exceeded the permissible exposure level (PEL) of 0.005 mg/m3 by 2.8 times. The exposure was derived from a sample collected for a 478-minute sampling period on October 18, 2023. Exposure calculations included a zero increment for the time not sampled.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

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) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at time prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that employees who are required to batch hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Sulfuric acid Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, and Hydro sulfuric Acid were trained on the hazards associated with the chemical.  b) Laboratory; On or about August 22, 2023, and at time prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that employees who are required to batch hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Sulfuric acid Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, and Hydro sulfuric Acid were trained on the hazards associated with the chemical.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(h)(2)(iii): The employer did not provide information to the employees as to the location and availability of the written hazard communication program, and material safety data sheets required by 29 CFR 1910.1200:  a) Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at time prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer did not ensure that employees were made aware of the location of the Safety Data Sheets for the hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric Acid, Sulfuric acid Acetic Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, and Hydro sulfuric Acid, which employees are required to batch daily.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1450(e)(1): Where hazardous chemicals were used in the workplace, the employer did not develop and carry out the provisions of a written Chemical Hygiene Plan which was capable of protecting employees from health hazards associated with hazardous chemicals:  a) Laboratory: On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employee to hazardous chemicals, in that the employer did not create a Chemical Hygiene Plan that includes personal protective equipment, training and employee information, Chemical Hygiene Officer, and medical attention to include follow-up examinations for employees working in the Laboratory.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $5,531 · Current $5,531

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1450(e)(3)(iii): The employer's Chemical Hygiene Plan did not include a requirement that fume hoods and other protective equipment functioned properly and did not include specific measures that would be taken to ensure proper and adequate performance of such equipment:  a) Laboratory: On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to hazardous chemicals, in that the employer did not provide employees with an operational fume hood that did not capture all fumes when required to work with hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, Phosphoric and Sulfuric Acid.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $6,452 · Current $6,452

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1450(f)(1): The employer did not provide laboratory employees with information and training to ensure that they were apprised of the hazards of chemicals present in their work area:  a) Laboratory: On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to chemical hazards, in that the employer did not provide employees with training or information related to contents of the OSHA laboratory standard and appendices, reference on hazards such as physical and health, safe handing, storage and disposal of hazards in the lab, and exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as but not limited to, appropriate work practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment to be used.

Issued

Feb 20, 2024

Abate by

Mar 19, 2024

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.23(b)(9): Ladders were not inspected before initial use in each work shift, and more frequently as necessary, to identify any visible defects that could cause employee injury.  a) Extension Ladder against Phosphoric Acid Holding Tank in Production Area; On or about August 22, 2023, and at times prior, the employer exposed employees to fall hazards, in that employees are required to use an extension ladder approximately 13 foot 1 inch in height to check the levels of the holding tanks without inspecting the ladders before use.