Text For Citation: 02 Item/Group: 001 Hazard: CHEMICAL

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: a) Mixing and Filling Department: The electrolyte constituents and the electrolyte itself are toxic. Employees exposed to an uncontrolled release of battery electrolyte or its contituents can suffer serious physical hare or death causing pulmonary edema, severe upper respiratory tract irritation, pulmonary paralysis or central nervous system depression. Adequate steps were not taken to assure and prevent electrolyte release, on or about April 6, 1992. Among others, one feasible and acceptable abaement method would include: 1. Compose a written inspection procedure addressing all vital components of the electrolyte system. This includes engineering drawings, schematics, illustrations and specifications of all parts. Include data on all modifications and keep a record of all maintenance performed. 2. Implement an effective on-going preventive maintenance program supported by written documentation and scheduled "sign-off" certification enumerating the items checked and any faulty conditions found. 3. Follow-up by recording corrective measures regarding any defect found or aberant situations encountered. 4. Establish and assign individual accountability and responsibility for the function.