Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 005 Hazard:

29 CFR 1910.147(f)(4): Shift or personnel changes. Specific procedures shall be utilized during shift or personnel changes to ensure the continuity of lockout or tagout protection, including provision for the orderly transfer of lockout or tagout device protection between off-going and oncoming employees, to minimize exposure to hazards from the unexpected energization or start-up of the machine or equipment, or the release of stored energy. On or about January 24, 2025, the employer did not ensure that specific lockout procedure was utilized for shift and personnel changes while working on the components associated with the line 6 extruder. Operators were assigned to perform setup tasks such as, but not limited to, changing of screen-pack and breaker plate assembly of the hydraulic screen changer after the equipment was serviced and left idling for a prolonged period of time while the barrel and heating element continued to be heated and sustained high melt temperatures. Operators were exposed to an unexpected release of hazardous stored pressure, heated gases and fumes, and heated molten plastic from the extruder barrel likely to result in serious burns and other injuries. Abatement documentation is required for this item in accordance with the requirements of 29 CFR 1903.19(d).