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OSHA News Release
2005 - 12/15/2005 - OSHA Completes Fatality Investigation; Cites Jefferson, Ga., Company |
OSHA News Release - Table of Contents |
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Region 4 News Release: 05-2306-ATL (309) Date: Thursday, December 15, 2005 Contact: G. T. Breezley Jo Anne Burgoyne Phone: (770) 493-6644 (404) 562-2076 OSHA Completes Fatality Investigation; Cites Jefferson, Ga., Company
ATLANTA -- The U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Joe Sikes Oil Service for exposing workers to safety and health hazards that contributed to a fatal accident June 19 at the company's Jefferson, Ga., facility. Proposed penalties total $30,400. OSHA's investigation revealed that the company failed to check the flammability of incoming waste oil products and to properly recycle the material. Reportedly, equipment used for these operations had been inoperable for at least two years. An explosion, which occurred while waste oil was being transferred from a storage tank to a tanker truck, killed one employee. "This needless tragedy points to the dangers of employers becoming complacent when handling hazardous waste materials," said Gei-Thae Breezley, OSHA's Atlanta-East area director. "The accident could have been prevented if the company had complied with OSHA and state regulations," OSHA issued 22 serious citations against the company, including failing to periodically inspect storage vessels; defective or inadequate storage tank equipment; lack of emergency training and equipment; several electrical violations and improperly stored hazardous chemicals. The company has 15 working days from receipt to contest the citations and proposed penalties before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. The inspection was conducted by OSHA's Atlanta-East area office located at LaVista Perimeter Office Park, Bldg. 7, Suite 110, Tucker, Ga, phone: (770) 493-6644. 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 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 at (202) 693-7765 or TTY (202) 693-7755. The U.S. Department of Labor 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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