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OSHA News Release
2006 - 03/10/2006 - OSHA Fines Houston-Based Lyondell-Citgo for Alleged Safety and Health Violations |
OSHA News Release - Table of Contents |
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Region 6 News Release: OSHA-06-397-DAL Friday, March 10, 2006 Contact: Diana Petterson or Elizabeth Todd Phone: (214) 767-4776, ext. 222 or 221 OSHA Fines Houston-Based Lyondell-Citgo for Alleged Safety and Health Violations
HOUSTON -- The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued citations against Lyondell-Citgo Refining LP in Houston for alleged violations of safety and health standards. The agency proposed penalties totaling $55,000. Lyondell-Citgo, which produces oil and gas, was cited for 11 serious violations following an explosion and fire at the company's Lawndale St. facility where about 900 workers are employed. OSHA's Houston South area office began an inspection Oct. 16 which found that a reactor overhead pipe containing vaporized hydrocarbons exploded, seriously injuring one contractor and causing major damage to the unit. "Had the employer followed OSHA's standards and procedures, this unfortunate accident might have been avoided," said Charles Williams, OSHA's Houston South area director. "Disregard for worker protection is unacceptable." Serious violations cited include failing to: identify, evaluate and control petrochemical hazards associated with the pipe; review operating procedures to ensure accuracy; develop and implement safety practices in the use of flammable gas meters, and follow inspection and maintenance procedures on mechanical equipment. A serious violation is one in which there is a substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known. The company has 15 working days from receipt of the citations to comply, request an informal conference with the OSHA Houston South area director or contest the citations and proposed penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. For information regarding workplace safety and health standards, call OSHA's Houston South office at (281) 286-0583 or OSHA's toll-free hotline number at 1-800-321-6742. Workplace accidents, fatalities or situations posing an imminent danger to workers also may be reported through the toll-free hotline. Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's workers by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov. # # #
U.S. Labor Department (DOL) releases are accessible on the Internet at www.dol.gov. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request. Call (202) 693-7765 or TTY (202) 693-7755. DOL is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit www.dol.gov/compliance. |
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