OSHA Inspection: CONESTOGA ENERGY PARTNERS, LLC.

Issued

2026-05-11

Abate by

2026-06-05

Penalty

Initial $11585 · Current $11585

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.147(c)(4)(ii): 29 CFR 1910.147(c)(4)(ii): The procedures did not clearly and specifically outline the scope, purpose, authorization, rules, and techniques to be utilized for the control of hazardous energy, and the means to enforce compliance including, but not limited to, 29 CFR 1910.147(c)(4)(ii)(A-D):  On or about March 19, 2026, employees utilized inadequate energy control procedures in that the Evap #4 Pump, PC-4104 procedures did not fully address how to isolate the steam and hot water nor did the procedure address the need to drain completely the residues (caustic salt and hot water) that remains inside the Evaporator Vessel prior to performing maintenance. The residual energy inside the tank was not empty and cleaned out completely, was not relieved, disconnected, restrained, and otherwise rendered safe which created a built-up pressure. The pressure inside the vessel passing through the pump separated and pushed out causing a release of steam and hot water which sprayed onto the body of the nearby employee.

Issued

2026-05-11

Abate by

2026-06-05

Penalty

Initial $11585 · Current $11585

General-duty citation text

29 CFR  1910.147(f)(1)(ii): When lockout or tagout devices temporarily were removed from the energy isolating device and the machine or equipment was energized to test or position the machine, the employees were not removed from the machine or equipment area in accordance to the paragraph (e)(2):   On or about March 19, 2026, employees did not stay away from the pump area after they removed their personal locks so that operations could adjust or reset the valves for the LOTO activities. The remaining pressure in the Evap #4 vessel released into the work area during the valve adjustment and the pressure separated the Evap #4 pump from its volute causing a release of steam and hot water. The employee was located near the pump and sprayed with steam and hot water.