Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard: CHEMICAL

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The %% employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to: the unconsciousness and death due to the possible inhalation of hydrogen sulfide gas while performing maintenance procedures utilizing a vacuum truck on lease site(s): Feasible and useful abatement methods for reducing the hazard include but are not limited to: implementation and enforcement of a written hydrogen sulfide procedural policy for all employees who may have occasion to work in areas where there is a potential for exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas. This policy would include the following basic essential elements: 1. Provide continuous monitoring of hydrogen sulfide levels in the work area by means of fixed an/or portable direct reading instruments equipped with visual and audible alarms. 2. Ensure that proper respiratory protective equipment (self contained breathing apparatus(s) is available in the immediate area whenever a site is known to have a potential for any exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas. 3. Require the use of respiratory protective equipment whenever conditions or events indicate a potential for overexposure (20 ppm or greater) to hydrogen sulfide gas. 4. Require the crew foreman to cease operations when conditions or events indicate the need for equipment or safeguards not immediately available on site. 5. Ensure that all employees have been thoroughly and effectively trained in the requirements of this written policy.