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

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The employer did not furnish a place of employment which was free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to ammonia inhalation and burn hazards: (a)United Food Services Inc. dba Shamrock Foods CO., at 5199 Ivy Street, Commerce City, CO 80022-4404: On or before 6/19/09, the exposing employer exposed its maintenance employees to ammonia inhalation and burn hazards caused by: 1)The failure to calibrate and test the Manning ammonia gas monitoring alarm system, model GM-JR EC-F9-NH3-0/250-N1, sn F9290901086, in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. The employer had not tested or calibrated the Manning ammonia gas monitoring system from 1/1/08 through 6/19/09. One feasible means of abatement includes following the calibration and maintenance procedures stated in the Manning GM-JR EC-F9-NH3 Calibration Procedure Brochure, and by following the maintenance procedures stated in the Instruction and Installation Manual. These directions provide that the sensor shall be calibrated a minimum of once every six months, or after exposure to a large concentration of gas. The maintenance procedures provide that the sensor being monitored should be exposed to the target gas on a monthly basis while all alarm functions are verified at the Manning GM-JR. This will test the sensor and any equipment connected to the relays in addition to the Manning GM-JR; and 2)The lack of ammonia gas detectors and alarm systems in the warehouse refrigeration areas served by the ammonia system. Conditions exposed employees to ammonia inhalation and burn hazards. Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (See enclosed "Sample Abatement-Certification Letter").