Texas cold store faces $76,500 fine

USA: Texas-based Valley International Cold Storage faces potential fines of $76,500 for failing to protect workers from possible exposure to ammonia.

Eight of the 15 violations brought by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration are related to the Process Safety Management Programme for the maintenance and operation of the anhydrous ammonia refrigerant system to prevent potentially catastrophic releases.

The violations include failing to inspect and test equipment intended to control and contain ammonia; failing to maintain process equipment in an acceptable working order; and not ensuring that process information is up to date and accurate. The company was also cited for failing to provide emergency eyewash, not having an audiometric testing programme, and improper chemical storage.

Valley International Cold Storage has 15 business days from receipt of its citations to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the citations and penalties before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.