Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard: DUST&FUMES

Section 5(a)(l) 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 in that employees were exposed to combustible dust explosion, deflagration, or other fire hazards: On or about 12/15/08 a) Main Grinding Room - Trim Handling System: Class II combustible dust (low density polyethylene) is generated, handled, and processed within equipment and locations which were not suitable in that: 1. The room or building did not contain deflagration venting to a safe outside location. 2. The dust collection system (aka air-material separator) was located inside the the building. 3. The air exhaust from the dust collection system recycled into the building was not designed to prevent re-entry of dust and energy from fire or explosion into the building. 4. Explosion protection for equipment (e.g., air material separators, cyclones) was not provided. 5. Isolation devices were not provided to prevent deflagration propagation between pieces of equipment connected by duct work. Abatement: Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable means of abatement would be to comply with the guidelines in NFPA 654 - Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids. NOTE: In addition to abatement certification, the employer is required to submit abatement documentation for this item in accordance with 29 CFR 1903.19.