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

OSH ACT of 1970 Section (5)(a)(1): 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 an inhalation hazard as a result of incompatible chemicals being stored next to each other. a) On or about October 13, 2017, two incompatible chemicals were stored together on a common two drum poly-spill pallet in the building's 51st floor mechanical room. A 55-gallon drum containing HOH Water Technology, Inc. C-438 (30-40% sulfuric acid) was stored next to a 55-gallon drum containing HOH Water Technology, Inc. DF-125 (12-16% sodium hypochlorite). Accidental mixture of these two incompatible materials is capable of forming toxic chlorine gas. Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable means of abatement to correct this hazard is to separate the sulfuric acid and sodium hypochlorite in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 400 Hazardous Materials Code 2016, Section 6.1.12. Specifically, segregate incompatible chemicals by at least 20 feet or isolate incompatible chemicals with a noncombustible partition and ensure that they are located on separate spill containment units. Other feasible and acceptable means of abatement to correct this hazard may also include utilizing compatible chemicals or implementing pulse powered chemical-free treatment. No abatement certification or documentation is required for this item. At the time of the inspection employer had removed the two incompatible chemicals from the site.