Inspection Detail

Inspection: 126016542 - Acme Temporary Service, Inc

Inspection Information - Office: San Diego District Office

Investigation Summary

At approximately 6:20 p.m. on April 19, 1996, Employee #1, a laborer for Acme Temporary Services, was working at a geothermal power generating facility that was being shut down for periodic cleaning. Workers had been set up in teams of two to open side hatch covers on vessels from which scale and sand were to be removed. Employee #1 was standing to the right of a coworker who was removing the retention bolts from a hatch cover when the hatch popped open and hot water sprayed out over Employee #1. He sustained severe burns on his arms, back, chest, and legs. Coworkers in the area came to his aid, removed his clothing and gloves, and placed him in a full shower. Emergency Services was called and Employee #1 was taken to the office where burn cream was applied. He was transported by paramedics to a local medical facility, and later taken to a regional burn facility. Subsequent investigation revealed that the hot water had been trapped in the vessel due to a faulty drain line.

Keywords: BURN, CHEST, WORK RULES, CLEANING, EQUIPMENT FAILURE, ARM, ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE, HOT WATER, LEG