OSHA violations lead to accident, fines

ANSI z535.1 - Safety Color Codes (previously z53.1)

In a recent news article, we learn about the OSHA compliance failings of a San Angelo TX company, S&S Steel Industries. Workers had been pressure-testing large steel vessels, without sufficient regard to safety or code compliance.

"workers were using air to pressure test large noncode vessels. This created an explosion hazard. Workers were exposed to the hazard of being struck by 10,000 lbs. of steel." - OSHA report

In the article we also learn that workers were using "untested gauges and pressure relief valves," which offer unreliable results and limited safety. In addition, workers were not following proper testing procedures as outlined in ASME code.

Why weren't the workers operating according to code?

Though we can only speculate in the case of S&S Industries, a common cause of non-compliance with ASME and ANSI codes is ignorance. Workers often receive limited training before starting on the job, and many companies do not have sufficient visual awareness campaigns in place to prevent accidents. Because workers are often poorly trained, and because workplaces are often poorly labeled, accidents and code violations are far more frequent than they need to be.

Proper safety labeling reduces OSHA code violations

OSHA code violations are expensive; not only in terms of fines, but in terms of legal liability and workplace moral. One simple way to reduce OSHA violations is through proper safety labeling. SafetyPro, a leader in OSHA labeling, helps companies produce their own compliance labels, specific to their workplace, when and where they need them. For more information about SafetyPro, call 877-762-9280 today.