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

29 CFR 1910.1200(h)(3)(i): Methods and observations were not used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical in the work area (such as monitoring conducted by the employer, continuous monitoring devices, visual appearance or odor of hazardous chemicals when being released, etc.): (a)Custom Genetic Solutions, LLC at 40275 257th Avenue, Mitchell, SD 57301: On or about and at times prior to November 20, 2019, the employer did not ensure employees were provided training to include the methods and observations needed to detect the presence or release of a nitrogen gas in the work area. Employees filled shipper or Dewar containers daily and Chart MVE 1842P-150 Cryogenic Freezers weekly with liquid nitrogen. The employer did not provide training on the methods to detect the release and accumulation of nitrogen gas to include the physical and health hazards and characteristics related to the sublimation from liquid to gas while filling the bulk tanks and the rapid expansion in an enclosed room creating an oxygen-deficient atmosphere. The employer did not provide employees with measures to protect themselves from these hazards to include specific procedures to include work practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment to be used. On the evening of November 20, 2019, an employee died as a result of working in an oxygen-deficient atmosphere as a result of filling bulk storage tanks with liquid nitrogen.