Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 007 Hazard:

29 CFR 1910.146(k)(3): The employer did not ensure retrieval systems or methods were used whenever an authorized entrant enters a permit space: (a) Envirotech Services, Inc. at 6850 47th Ave, Evans, CO: On 12/5/2017, the employer did not ensure a retrieval system or method was used when an authorized entrant entered the permit space. Two employees were tasked with cleaning a railway tank car that previously contained glycerol. The employer determined the railway tank car was a permit required confined space. While working in the railway tank car, the entrant collapsed and the attendant and supervisor attempted to rescue the entrant. The entrant who entered the confined space was not wearing a chest or full body harness and a retrieval system was not in place. This condition exposed three employees to an Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) atmosphere. Abatement Note: Abatement certification and documentation are required for this item (see enclosed "Certification of Corrective Action Worksheet"). Retrieval systems shall meet the following requirements: 1) Each authorized entrant shall use a chest or full body harness, with a retrieval line attached at the center of the entrant's back near shoulder level, above the entrant's head, or at another point which the employer can establish presents a profile small enough for the successful removal of the entrant. Wristlets may be used in lieu of the chest or full body harness if the employer can demonstrate that the use of a chest or full body harness is infeasible or creates a greater hazard and that the use of wristlets is the safest and most effective alternative. 2) The other end of the retrieval line shall be attached to a mechanical device or fixed point outside the permit space in such a manner that rescue can begin as soon as the rescuer becomes aware that rescue is necessary. A mechanical device shall be available to retrieve personnel from vertical type permit spaces more than 5 feet (1.52 m) deep.