OSHA Inspection: FLORENZA MARBLE & GRANITE CORPORATION

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $3,457 · Current $1,696 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.22(a)(2): The employer did not ensure that the floor of each workroom is maintained in a clean and, to the extent feasible, in a dry condition. The employer did not ensure that when wet processes were used, drainage was maintained and, to the extent feasible, dry standing places, such as false floors, platforms, and mats are provided.  a) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer did not ensure that a floor drain (4-inch pipe) was maintained in a functional condition when an employee operated a Cougar Bridge Saw to cut engineered stone slabs containing up to 60% silica (quartz). Silt and water accumulated on the floor throughout the shift and employees continued to walk through the water without cleaning it up.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification.  This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $4,148 · Current $2,035 Reduced

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.141(g)(2): Employees were permitted to consume food or beverage in area(s) exposed to toxic materials:  a) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer allowed employees to consume food or beverage in an area exposed to toxic chemicals including but not limited to crystalline silica and acetone.   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification.  This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

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) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer did not ensure that employees who were required to use 3M 8210 Plus N95 filtering facepiece respirators and/or 3M 6000 series tight-fitting half-face respirator with combo filter (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100) during the production of engineered stone countertops, were medically evaluated to determine their ability to wear the respirators.  No abatement documentation is required for this item.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(f)(2): Employee(s) using tight-fitting facepiece respirators were not fit tested prior to initial use of the respirator:  a) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer did not ensure that employees who were required to use 3M 8210 Plus N95 filtering facepiece respirators and/or 3M 6000 series tight-fitting half-face respirator with combo filter (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100) during the production of engineered stone countertops, were fit tested prior to initial use of the respirator. Employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  No abatement documentation is required for this item.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

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) Fabrication Area - On February 29, 2023, the employer did not ensure that employees using 3M 8210 Plus N95 filtering facepiece respirators did not have facial hair which interfered with the seal between the face and the respirator's facepiece.  b) Fabrication Area - On February 29, 2023, the employer did not ensure that an employee using 3M 6000 series tight-fitting half-face respirator with combo filter (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100) did not have facial hair which interfered with the seal between the face and the respirator's facepiece.  Employees in the fabrication area conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3, and had not been subjected to a quantitative or quantitative fit test.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

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) Fabrication Area - On February 23, 2024, the employer did not ensure that employees cleaned and disinfected their 3M 6000 series tight-fitting half-face respirator with combo filter (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100) according to Appendix B of 29 CFR 1910.134. Upon visual inspection, the inside of the respirator's facepiece was found to be dirty. Employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

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) Fabrication Area - On February 23, 2024, the employer did not ensure that respirators were stored to prevent contamination from silica dust particles. Employee(s) stored the 3M 6000 series tight-fitting half-face respirator with combo filter (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100) hanging in the wall.   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(h)(4): Respirators that failed an inspection or were otherwise found to be defective were not removed from service and discarded or repaired:  a) Fabrication Area - On February 23, 2024, the employer did not ensure that a defective respirator was removed from service.  An employee used a 3M 6000 series tight-fitting half-face respirator with combo filter that had the upper headband strap missing and was repaired using a rope. Employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.134(k)(1): The employer did not provide respirator training that would ensure each employee could demonstrate knowledge of items in section (i)-(vii):  a) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer required its employees to use respiratory protection, including but not limited to 3M 8210 Plus N95 filtering facepiece respirators and 3M 6000 series tight-fitting half-face respirator with combo filter (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100), when conducting countertop fabrication operations. Employees were not trained on why the respirator was necessary and how improper fit, usage, storage or maintenance can compromise the protective effect of the respirator. Employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(d)(6)(i): Within 15 working days after completing an exposure assessment in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section, the employer did not individually notify each affected employee in writing of the results of that assessment or post the results in an appropriate location accessible to all affected employees:  a) Fabrication Area - On or before April 8, 2024, the employer did not notify each affected employee working in the fabrication area in writing or by posting of the results of the air monitoring that were received via email from OSHA on March 15, 2024.  Employees performed engineered stone countertop cutting, grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 4-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.    In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification.  This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - On or about February 29, 2024, the employer did not establish a regulated area for employees cutting, grinding and polishing engineered stone countertops containing up to 60% of silica (quartz). Employees in the fabrication area were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification.  This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(f)(2)(i)(A): The exposure control plan did not contain a description of the tasks in the workplace that involve exposure to respirable crystalline silica:  a) Fabrication Area - On February 23, 2024, the employer's exposure control plan did not include a description of tasks that involve potential exposure to respirable crystalline silica, including but not limited to creating cut-outs for sinks, and/or shoveling dry slurry, and/or cleaning exhaust air duct vents from settled crystalline silica dust, in the exposure control plan that was developed for the workplace.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(f)(2)(i)(B): The exposure control plan did not contain a description of the engineering controls, work practices, and respiratory protection used to limit employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica for each task:  a) Fabrication Area - On February 23, 2024, the employer's exposure control plan did not include a description of dust control methods being used at the shop to limit employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica when cutting stone slabs, and/or grinding and polishing stone countertops, and/or shoveling dry slurry, and/or cleaning exhaust air duct vents and floors from settled crystalline silica dust.   b) Fabrication Area - On February 23, 2024, the employer's exposure control plan did not list the type of respiratory protection that was required to be used for each task to limit employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica.   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(f)(2)(i)(C): The exposure control plan did not contain a description of the housekeeping measures used to limit employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica:  a) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer did not include in the facility's written exposure control plan details on the housekeeping practices used to control respirable crystalline silica exposures during and following the fabrication of engineered stone countertops containing up to 60% of silica (quartz). Employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(f)(2)(ii): The employer did not review and evaluate the effectiveness of the written exposure control plan at least annually and update it as necessary:  a) Fabrication area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer did not review and evaluate the effectiveness of the written exposure control plan at least annually and did not update it as necessary to address aspects including but not limited to changes in work practices, tool modifications, or reports of medical symptoms related to respirable crystalline silica exposures. Employees conducting engineered stone countertop cutting, grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 4-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(h)(2)(i): The employer allowed compressed air to be used to clean clothing or surfaces where such activity could contribute to employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica without being used in conjunction with a ventilation system to capture blown dust:  a) Fabrication Area - On February 29, 2024, the employer allowed employees to use compressed air guns to clean the surface of the engineered stone countertop and their clothes without being used in conjunction with a ventilation system to capture blown silica dust. Employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $4,839 · Current $2,374 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(1): The employer did not develop, implement, and/or maintain at the workplace a written hazard communication program which describes how the criteria specified in 29 CFR 1910.1200(f), (g), and (h) will be met:  a) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer did not implement, at the workplace, a written hazard communication program in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1200 that describe at least the following:   1) Requirement for labeling of containers of hazardous chemicals:  2) Training of employees;  3) A complete list of hazardous chemicals known to be in the workplace; 4) Methods to inform employees of the hazards of non-routine tasks; and,  5) Methods to inform other employer(s) of safety data sheets availability; the labeling system and any precautionary measures to protect employees.  Employees were exposed to chemicals including, but not limited to:  respirable crystalline silica (quartz and cristobalite), Acetone and Superior Polyester Adhesive and Filler (containing Styrene and Ethyl benzene).    In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(j)(1): The employer did not include respirable crystalline silica in the program established to comply with the hazard communication standard (HCS) (29 CFR 1910.1200):  a) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer did not provide training to the employees on respirable crystalline silica to which they were exposed while wet and dry cutting, grinding and polishing engineered stone countertop containing up to 60% silica (quartz). Employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 00402280E230

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) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 2024, the employer did not provide training to his employees on the hazardous chemicals at the worksite used during the fabrication of countertops such as, but not limited to Acetone and Superior Polyester Adhesive and Filler (containing Styrene and Ethyl benzene).   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

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) Fabrication Area - On or about February 23, 204, the employer did not ensure that employees cutting, grinding and polishing engineered stone countertops containing up to 60% silica quartz were provided with training regarding the health hazards of respirable crystalline silica (RCS); tasks that exposed them to the RCS; and any implemented control measures. Employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations were exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust approximately 3-6 times the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 ?g/m3.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

Hazardous substances 9000

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not have a written respiratory protection program developed and implemented to protect the health of employees from hazardous chemicals such as, but not limited to acetone, styrene (components of Superior Polyesters Transparent Knife Grade Adhesive) and ethylbenzene (components of Superior Polyesters Transparent Knife Grade Adhesive).  This was most recently documented on February 23, 2024, when employee(s) used 3M 8210 Plus N95s respirators and 3M 6000 series half-face negative pressure elastomeric respirators with 3M 602923 cartridges (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100), during the fabrication of stone countertops.  Elements of a written respiratory protection program including but not limited to medical evaluation, fit testing and training are not implemented in the workplace.   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(g)(2): Where respirator use was required by this section, the employer did not institute a respiratory protection program in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.134:  a) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not have a written respiratory protection program developed and implemented to protect the health of employees from respirable crystalline silica.  This was most recently documented on February 23, 2024, when employees used 3M 8210 Plus N95s respirators and 3M 6000 series half-face negative pressure elastomeric respirators with 3M 602923 cartridges (Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100), during the fabrication of stone countertops. Elements of a written respiratory protection program including but not limited to medical evaluation, fit testing and training are not implemented in the workplace. On February 29, 2024, employee(s) working on engineered stone containing up to 60% silica (quartz) were exposed to respirable crystalline silica concentrations of 180 to 320 µg/m3, approximately 3.6 to 6.5 times the Permissible Exposure Level.   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 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 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour TWA:  a) Fabrication Area - An employee in the fabrication area performing grinding and polishing engineered stone, is exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 320 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 6.5 times.  This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when the employee worked on engineered stone containing up to 60% silica (quartz).   b) Fabrication Area - An employee in the fabrication area performing grinding and polishing engineered stone, is exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 210 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 4.1 times.  This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when the employee worked on engineered stone containing up to 60% silica (quartz).   c)Fabrication Area - An employee in the fabrication area performing grinding and polishing engineered stone, is exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 270 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 5.4 times.  This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when the employee worked on engineered stone containing up to 60% silica (quartz).    d) Fabrication Area - An employee in the fabrication area cutting engineered stones, is exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 180 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 3.7 times.  This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when the employee worked on engineered stone containing up to 60% silica (quartz).   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Sep 8, 2025

Penalty

Initial $0 · Current $0

Hazardous substances 9000

General-duty citation text

29 CFR 1910.1053(f)(1): The employer did not use engineering and work practice controls to reduce and maintain employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica to or below the PEL, unless the employer can demonstrate that such controls are not feasible:  Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not implement feasible engineering and administrative methods and controls to limit employee exposures to respirable crystalline silica when polishing and grinding natural and engineered (quartz) stone slabs during fabrication of countertops. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when:  a) Three employees conducting engineered stone countertop grinding and polishing operations with angle grinders and stone polishers, are exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), ranging from 210 to 320 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average. These values exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 µg/m3 by approximately 4 to 6 times.   b) An employee conducting engineered stone countertop cutting operations with a bridge wet saw was exposed to airborne concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 180 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average. This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 50 µg/m3 by approximately 3 times.	  See instance description in item 2a of this citation.   General methods of control applicable in this circumstance include, but are not limited to the following:  1. Seek the expertise of a competent individual such as an engineer or certified industrial hygienist to obtain recommendations to implement appropriate controls including an effective local exhaust ventilation system and equipment with integrated water delivery system and prepare design documentation for the successful installation of recommended equipment.  2. Ensure that all equipment used for cutting and polishing operations is designed and equipped to function with appropriate engineering controls as designed by the manufacturer such as an integrated water delivery system or shroud with exhaust ventilation.  3. Perform periodic maintenance checks on any equipment with integrated water delivery system to ensure that the system, including water flow rates and dispersion is functioning as designed in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.  4. Prohibit the use any work practices such as compressed air to clean surfaces and clothing that will re-entrain the silica dust.  5. Establish and implement an effective housekeeping program to ensure that all dust is promptly & regularly removed to prevent the accumulation of silica containing dust on horizontal surfaces.    STEP 1: (a) 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 the respirable dust permissible exposure limits.    (b) Implement a medical surveillance program by ensuring all exposed workers seek medical examination. This medical examination by a physician or a licensed healthcare provider shall cover all elements including medical and work history as outlined in 1910.1053(i). Abatement due by DATE.  STEP 2: Submit to the area director a written, detail plan of abatement outlining a schedule for the implementation of engineering and/or administrative measure to control employee exposure to hazardous substances as referenced in this citation. This plan shall include, at a minimum, target dates for the following action which must be consistent with the abatement dates required by this citation.  Abatement due by DATE.  1) Evaluation of engineering/administrative control options;  2) Selection of optimum control methods and completion of design;  3) Procurement, installation and operation of selected control measures; and  4) Testing and acceptance or modification/redesign of controls.  STEP 3: Abatement shall have been completed by the implementation of feasible engineering and/or administrative controls upon verification of their effectiveness in achieving compliance. Abatement due by DATE.  NOTE: All proposed control measures shall be evaluated for each particular use by a competent industrial hygienist or other technically qualified person.  30-day progress reports are required during the abatement period.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not evaluate the exposure of employees exposed to respirable crystalline silica when polishing and grinding natural and engineered (quartz) stone slabs during fabrication of countertops. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when an employee was exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 320 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 6.5 times.   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not evaluate the exposure of employees exposed to respirable crystalline silica when polishing and grinding natural and engineered (quartz) stone slabs during fabrication of countertops. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when an employee was exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 210 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 4.1 times.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not evaluate the exposure of employees exposed to respirable crystalline silica when cutting natural and engineered (quartz) stone slabs during fabrication of countertops. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when an employee was exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 180 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 3.7 times.   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not evaluate the exposure of employees exposed to respirable crystalline silica when polishing and grinding natural and engineered (quartz) stone slabs during fabrication of countertops. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when an employee was exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 270 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 5.4 times.   In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19(d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstrating that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of the purchase or repair of the equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement, or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not provide medical surveillance to employees that are exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) at or above the Action Level of 25 µg/m3 for 30 or more days a year. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when an employee performing grinding and polishing engineered stones was exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 320 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 6.5 times.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not provide medical surveillance to employees that are exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) at or above the Action Level of 25 µg/m3 for 30 or more days a year. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when an employee performing grinding and polishing natural and engineered stone countertops was exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 210 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 4.1 times.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not provide medical surveillance to employees that are exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) at or above the Action Level of 25 µg/m3 for 30 or more days a year. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when an employee cutting engineered stone slabs was exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 180 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 3.7 times.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.

Issued

Aug 22, 2024

Abate by

Jul 7, 2025

Penalty

Initial $96,794 · Current $47,490 Reduced

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) Fabrication Area - Florenza Marble & Granite Corporation does not provide medical surveillance to employees that are exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) at or above the Action Level of 25 µg/m3 for 30 or more days a year. This was most recently documented on February 29, 2024, when an employee performing grinding and polishing natural and engineered stone countertops was exposed to concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (quartz), of 270 µg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). This value exceeded the OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) by approximately 5.4 times.  In accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19 (d), abatement certification is required for this violation (using the CERTIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION WORKSHEET), and in addition, documentation demonstration that abatement is complete must be included with your certification. This documentation may include, but is not limited to, evidence of purchase or repair of equipment, photographic or video evidence of abatement or other written records.