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 struck-by hazards: LINDA LEASE/WELL #41-2:The employer does not ensure that employees are protected from struck-by hazards by ensuring that fracturing equipment was inspected and pressure tested, used with available safeguards, and operated using procedures that safeguarded personnel during fracturing operations. On or about February 7, 2012 employees were exposed to struck-by hazards in that: c) All employees were not provided and required to utilize communication devices during setup and use of high pressure equipment. e) The employer did not ensure that personnel not directly involved in the operation remain beyond a designated minimum distance during all prefacturing, pressure testing and pumping operations. f) The employer did not ensure that employees did not loosen or tighten threaded connections and unions while under pressure. Among other methods, one feasible and acceptable abatement method to correct this hazard include, but is not limited to, implementing Industry Recommended Practices to safeguard employees during fracturing activities. Pursuant to 29 CFR 1903.19, within ten (10) days of the date of this citation, the employer must submit documentation showing that it is in compliance with the standard, including describing the steps that it is taking to ensure that employees are protected from struck-by hazards when engaged in fracking operations.