OSHA has cited a power plant and it’s security services provider, for $43,458 in total proposed penalties, following a release of anhydrous ammonia at its Gibsonton facility. On May 23, 2017, OSHA responded to the incident and determined that the ammonia release occurred when a relief valve activated after a pipeline became over pressurized. As a result, four workers were taken to the hospital for observation and released. OSHA issued the power plant two serious citations for failing to include all the minimum requirements in their emergency response plan and not ensuring employees exposed to hazardous substances wore appropriate respiratory protection. The Agency also issued the power company a Hazard Alert Letter with recommendations to mitigate asphyxiation hazards. The investigation also led to citations for the security services provider, which received two serious violations for not developing or implementing a written hazard communication program, and failing to provide information and training on hazardous chemicals in the workplace. Here are the citations:
NOTE: this is the same power plant that had the fatal slag tank accident earlier in the year.