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

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 fire and explosion hazards: Employees working in the Conex break/change building filling and manufacturing flash grenades were exposed to fire/explosion hazards in the following instances: a) A general use electrical extension cord was being used in the mixing area b) An electrical hot glue gun was being used in the mixing area c) The HVAC system connected continuously through the filter system and ductwork d) The general purpose HVAC thermostat located in the break area e) The electrical conduit constructed of plumbing pipe in the break area f) The wall openings where electrical wiring ran and was not sealed g) The floors of the filling room had cracks and crevices where flash powder could accumulate h) Conductive footwear or grounding devices were not being worn by employees performing filling in the production area i) A means for discharging static was not provided at the entrance for personnel entering the filling area j) Provisions for explosion relief were not provided in the flash grenade production building in the form of vents, baffles or other relief devices k) Ferrous tools and equipment were permitted to be used in the flash grenade production area including metal coffee cans, metal chairs and tables, and a dart board with metal parts and metal darts Among other methods the following are feasible and acceptable abatement method(s): Ensuring manufacturing facilities are in compliance with the National Fire Protection Agency Codes for the Manufacture of Pyrotechnic Articles using flash powder.s