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

29 CFR 1910.106(b)(6): In locations where flammable vapors may be present, precautions were not taken to prevent ignition by eliminating or controlling sources of ignition. Sources of ignition may include open flames, lighting, smoking, cutting and welding, hot surfaces, frictional heat, sparks (static, electrical, and mechanical), spontaneous ignition, chemical and physical- chemical reactions, and radiant heat: (a)Augustus Energy Partners, LLC at Acker 1425, Wray, CO 80758: On February 22, 2010 the employer did not take precautions to prevent ignition in that an employee was instructed top light a catalytic heater in a separator shed. Hydrocarbon gas accumulated in the shed which subsequently ignited into a flash fire. This condition exposed the employees to a flash fire hazard. Abatement Note: When engaged in work at a shed with a separator and there is a possibility of a formation of hydrocarbon gas, the employer must take steps to control the hazardous condition. Methods to prevent the ignition of the hydrocarbon gas could include: (1)Ensure the dump line is extended a sufficient distance from the shed to prevent accumulation of gas in the shed. (2)Use heat tape and/or insulation to prevent freeze-up of the dump line. (3)Use an infrared heater to prevent freeze-up of any part of the system. Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed "Sample Abatement-Certification Letter"). OR IN THE ALTERNATIVE 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 flash fire and/or explosion hazards: (a)Augustus Energy Partners, LLC at Acker 1425, Wray, CO 80758: On February 22, 2010 an employee was in the process of lighting a catalytic heater in a separator shed. The employees were not provide a means to detect the hydrocarbon gas and because the hydrocarbon gas had accumulated in the shed which subsequently ignited into a flash fire. This condition exposed the employees to a flash fire hazard. Abatement Note: Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable abatement method to correct this hazard is to perform the following: (1)Use detection monitors to test the lower explosive limit (LEL) of the atmosphere in the immediate work area. (2)Take necessary steps to eliminate sources of ignition in areas where hydrocarbons are known, or may be known to be present. (b)Augustus Energy Partners, LLC at Acker 1425, Wray, CO 80758: The employer directed employees to remove the dump line under the shed which allowed for hydrocarbon gas to accumulate in the shed. These gases ignited into a flash fire. This condition exposed the employees to a flash fire hazard. Abatement Note: Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable abatement method to correct this hazard is to ensure the dump line is sufficiently long to expel gas away from the shed. Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed "Sample Abatement-Certification Letter").-Certification