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

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 being struck-by mobile heavy equipment (e.g. front -end loaders) and vehicles while walking as pedestrians in and around blind corners/intersections associated with plant buildings, roadways, and grounds: a.) Erie Coke Corporation - Coal Handling Area - Plant Roadway between Hammer Mill Building and Ore Bridge Trestle: On or about February 12, 2011, and at times prior thereto, employees were exposed to being struck-by the Caterpillar Front End Loader (#4633, Model #980C, Serial Number #63XO4633) while walking around blind corners. These blind corners include but are not limited to walking around the corner of the Hammer Mill Building and into the roadway area. Abatement Note: Among other methods, feasible and acceptable means to correct the condition include: Conduct a complete evaluation of plant grounds, buildings, and roadways to identify similar blind spots and/or congested intersections Develop a written policy that requires operators of vehicles, trucks, loaders, and other material handling equipment to slow down and sound the horn at cross aisles and other locations where vision is obstructed. Train all operators of vehicles, trucks, loaders and other material handling equipment to slow down and sound the horn at cross aisles and other locations where vision is obstructed. In order to ensure the safety of operations during periods of darkness/reduced visibility, apply luminescent paint to the corners of buildings that contribute to blind spots/blind intersections. Erect barriers to protect pedestrians in walkway areas near blind spots and congested areas. Erect lighted signals that are activated by a pressure pad before pedestrians step into blind spots/congested travel areas. Appraise all visitors, guests, and contractors of plant speed limits, and blind intersections/corners.