Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard:

29 CFR 1910.252(a)(2)(vi)(C):Cutting or welding was permitted in the presence of explosive atmospheres (mixture of flammable gases, vapors, liquids, or dusts with air), or explosive atmospheres that could develop inside uncleaned or improperly prepared tanks or equipment which had previously contained such materials, or that could develop in areas with an accumulation of combustible dusts: (a) Facility, 1711 Route 588, Fombell, PA: On or about August 18, 2021 an employee was preparing to cut the lid off a 55 gallon barrel that had previously contained varnish. Although the barrel had been baked for approximately 8 hours the caps were replaced prior to the task and vapors built up inside. When the employee touched the plasma torch to the barrel it exploded and the lid ripped open and struck the employee. The employee sustained broken ribs and nerve damage to the right arm.