to

12.

13.

Are fire extinguishers marked for the
types of fires for which they should
be used?

Are employees given instructions on
how to choose and use) the right type
of extinguisher for a particular fire?

Are fire hoses when required always
connected and ready for immediate use?

If there is a fixed COo extinguishing
system required by Osa:
(If not, go to question 11).

a. Are there provisions to ensure prompt
evacuation of all employees in the

C02 discharge areas?

b. Are there provisions to carry out
the prompt rescue of employees
trapped in a C02 discharge area?

c. Is the COp system thoroughly inspected
and tested at Teast onsuat ty?

d. Are inspection and maintenance records
maintained?

If there is a fixed dry chemical
extinguishing system: (If not, go to
question 12).

a. Is the system inspected at least
annually?

b. Are controls tested at least
annually?

c. Are inspection and maintenance
records maintained?

Is there a local fire-alarm signaling
system?

Is more than one person on each shift
assigned the responsibility of notifying
the fire department during emergencies?
(even when an automatic fire alarm
system is installed?)

Yes (

Yes (

Yes (

Yes (

Yes (
Yes (

Yes (

Yes (

Yes (

Yes (

Yes (

Yes (

No (

No (

No (

No (

No (
No (

No (

No (

No (

No (

No (

No (


Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your plant who know the most about the areas covered;
and while conducting a survey, complete this section with their help.

1. Is the opening to the elevator boot covered
with a suitable grate and are access plates
kept in place to protect against contact
with moving machinery? Yes () No ( )

2. Where stationary work platforms are not
practical, is a mobile crane and boom used
to perform maintenance work at elevated
heights? Yes ( ) No ( )

3. Are provisions made to use lifelines and
safety belts where necessitated by high
work conditions? Yes () No ( )

4. Are lockout and blocking precautions
strictly enforced anytime a cover plate

has to be removed? Yes () No ( )
5. When digging out a stalled elevator, are

buckets blocked to prevent shifting? Yes () No ( )
6. Is a lockout procedure in effect? Yes () No ()
7. If the elevator handles sulfur or ammonium

nitrate, have vents been installed? Yes ( ) No ( )
8. Is the elevator chain or metal casing

(if applicable) properly grounded? Yes () No()
9. Are worn out and damaged buckets replaced

with non-metallic buckets? Yes () No ( )
10. Are belt alignment indicators used to

keep belt tracking properly? Yes ( ) No ()
11. Are speed indicator devices used on bucket

elevator belts to indicate slow down? Yes ( ) No ( )
Conveyors

Conveyors are found at almost all fertilizer retail plants and
distribution centers. They aretypically used to unload rail cars
and trucks, feed product into storage bins, move product from bins to
blenders, load out spreader equipment, etc. Types of conveyors
include normal fixed belts, shuttle belts, screw conveyors, paddle
and other drag flight conveyors.

28


Are the following items available at the ammonia

bulk plant:

a. Gas mask?

b. Two respirator ammonia canisters?

c. Safety water: deluge shower?
safety water tank?
eye wash showers?

d. Appropriate chemical splash-proof

goggles?

e. Ammonia resistant safety gloves?

f. Slicker or rain suit?

g. Boots?

24

Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes

Yes
Yes
Yes

)
)
)
)
)
)


8. Are broken packages covered and

promptly cleaned up? Yes () No ( )
9. Are racks and platforms loaded within

the posted limits of their capacity? Yes ( ) No ( )
10. Are drums or other containers that

can roll, chocked at the base? Yes () No ( )
11. Are floor weight capacities identified

where necessary? Yes ( ) No ( )
Plant Yard

A clean, orderly, and well-kept yard indicates the interest of the
responsible manager and workers in maintaining a plant that is an
asset to the community in which it functions. It also is a reflection
that the business conducted here will be handled in a safe and
efficient manner. ‘

Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your estahlishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a walk-through survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Are fences and gates maintained in good

condition for plant security? Yes ( ) No ( )
2. Are vehicles and associated equipment

stored safely? Yes () No ()
3. Are there emergency notification signs

posted at the entrance to the premises? Yes () No ( )
Tankage

This section is intended to provide an insight into the potential
hazards of liquid fertilizer storage. It includes storage,
equipment, and procedures. This section should enable you to-
evaluate your safety and health program, and help you determine
areas that may need improvement.

Storage tanks containing various types of fertilizers and raw
materials present several potential hazards to personnel, if safe
procedures are not followed. Several general procedures. should be
followed before entry into any storage tank.

33


APPLICATION EQUIPMENT

Retail fertilizer plants have a variety of field application
equipment depending upon the volume of product sold, plant
location, and the crops serviced. The application equipment
may include pull-type spreaders and truck spreaders.

The potential for personal injury is inherent in the use of
spreader equipment as with any piece of powered machinery or
equipment. The questions in this section are designed to
identify potential hazards to employees resulting from
operating this equipment and to evaluate the plant's program
to protect employees from these potential hazards. This
section covers the following:

Dry pull-type and self-propelled spreaders

Ammonia nurse tanks and pull-type and self-propelled
applicators

Liquid nurse tanks and pull-type and self-propelled
applicators

Pull-type spreaders and applicators are used to apply fertilizer
to the grower's fields. They are generally pulled with a four
wheel drive truck or tractor by a dealer employee, or farmer, after
being loaded with the desired product at the fertilizer plant.

Self-propelled spreaders are used to broadcast liquid and dry
fertilizer on the fields. This type equipment consists basically
of a liquid or dry container mounted on a truck chassis, designed
for farm use, with heavy-duty springs, axles and frames.

Some of the hazards associated with this equipment include injuries
due to moving parts, conveying mechanisms, brakes and rotating
power take-off shafts, and accidental exposure to toxic chemicals.
Therefore, it is necessary to develop and follow safe procedures to
control potential hazards. An effective safety program for
fertilizer spreader operation includes:

Adequate guarding of the moving parts of the spreaders.

Periodic inspection and preventive maintenance of each
spreader.

Formal training for spreader operators and maintenance
personnel.

Water tank (15-20 gal) mounted on spreader for emergency
wash.


7. Have suitable fire control devices such
as hose, portable extinguishers and/or
fire hydrants been provided? Yes ( ) No ( )

8. Are bags of ammonium nitrate prohibited
from being stored closer than 30" from
walls or partitions? Yes ( ) No ( )

9. Are bags of ammonium nitrate prohibited
from being stored closer than 36" below
the roof? Yes () No ( )

10. Are aisles in bag storage areas 3' in width? Yes ( ) No ( )

11. Are main aisles in bag storage areas
at least 4' wide? Yes () No ( )

12. Is bulk storage prohibited from being
stacked closer than 36" from the roof? Yes () No ()

13. Are ammonium nitrate storage bins clearly
identified by signs reading "Ammonium Nitrate"
with letters at least 2" high? Yes ( ) No ()

14. Are explosives such as dynamite and blasting
agents prohibited from being stored in

the same building with ammonium nitrate? Yes ( ) No ( )
15. Are bins clean and free of materials

which may contaminate ammonium nitrate? Yes ( ) No ( )
16. Are respirators required to be worn

in ammonium nitrate areas? Yes ( ) No ( )
Sulfur

Solid sulfur is used as an ingredient in mixed fertilizers. Even if
sulfur is used in liquid form, it is often stored and shipped as a
solid.

Solid sulfur exposed to air and moisture rapidly becomes acid and
corrodes carbon steel, plain or galvanized steel. Wood and concrete
are attacked, but more slowly.

The questions in this section are designed to identify potential

hazards resulting from storing solid sulfur and to evaluate the plant's
program to protect employees from these hazards.

43


SANITATION
(OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.141)

Sanitation and good housekeeping are essential parts of any
effective occupational safety and health program. This section is
designed to identify potential sources of illness and injury and
to evaluate the establishment's program to prevent unsanitary
conditions. An effective sanitation program includes:

-- Regular inspection of facilities to identify unsanitary
conditions.

-- A frequent, regular, and assigned program of housekeeping.

-- Review of records to determine any connection between poor
sanitation and employee illness or absence.

-- Education of employees in personal hygiene.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the areas covered;
and while conducting a survey, complete this section with their help.

1. Is housekeeping a regularly scheduled and
assigned activity at this establishment? Yes () No()

2. Are floors and walkways kept dry and clean? Yes () No ( )
3. Are work areas kept clean? Yes () No ( )

4. Are exits kept clear? Yes () No ()

41


1.

12.

13.

14.

15.

Before a regulator is removed, is the
valve closed and gas released from
the regulator?

Are eyes protected (by eye/face protectors)
from ultraviolet (UV) radiation?

Is adequate ventilation provided during
welding?

Is it prohibited to open the acetylene
cylinder valve more than 1-1/2 turns of
the spindle?

If a special wrench is required, is it
left in position?

Arc Welding and Cutting

ilo

Does the apparatus comply with "Requirements
for Electrical Arc Welding Apparatus," NEMA
EW-1-1962, National Electrical Manufacturers
Association, or with "Safety Standard for
Transformer-Type Arc Welding Machines,"
Jaborator ies?

Are workers assigned to operate or maintain
arc welding equipment required to be
familiar with OSHA requirements?

Are all connections checked before
starting welding or cutting operations?

Is grounding of the machine frame and
safety ground connections checked?

Are manufacturer's printed rules and
instructions required to be followed?

Is the electric power to the machines shut
off when no one is in attendance?

Is it prohibited to use cables with splices
within 10 feet of the holder?

Is the welder forbidden to coil or loop

welding electrode cable around
his/her body?

47

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

()
()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()

()


APPENDIX B

NIOSH REGIONAL OFFICES

The following NIOSH and OSHA regional offices which can provide
information on the OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT including
questions on standards interpretations, voluntary compl iance
information, copies of the OSHA Standards, OSHA Act, Employee Rights

Posting notice, and publications.

DHEW, Region I

Government Center

(JFK Fed. Bldg.)

Boston, Massachusetts 02203
Tel.: 617/223-6668/9

DHEW, Region II
26 Federal Plaza
New York, New York 10007
Tel.: 212/264-2485/8

DHEW, Region III

3525 Market Street

P.0. Box 13716

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19101
Tel.: 215/596-6716

DHEW, Region IV
50 Seventh Street, N.E.
Atlanta, Georgia 30323

Tel .:404/881-4474

DHEW, Region V

300 South Wacker Drive

Chicago, Illinois 60607
Tel.: 312/886-3881

51

DHEW, Region VI
1200 Main Tower Building
Room 1700-A
Dallas, Texas 75245
Tel.: 214/655-3081

DHEW, Region VII

601 East 12th Street

Kamsas City, Missouri 64106
Tel.: 816/374-5332

DHEW, Region VIII

19th & Stout Streets

9017 Federal Building

Denver, Colorado 80202
Tel.: 303/837-3979

DHEW, Region IX

50 Fulton Street (223 FOB)

San Francisco, California 94102
Tel.: 415/556-3781

DHEW, Region X

1321 Second Avenue

(Arcade Bldg.)

Seattle, Washington 98101
Tel. :206/442-0530


Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

lo

Are only trained and authorized persons
permitted to operate front-end loaders
and forklifts?

Is a complete safety check made of the
vehicle periodically?

Do all front-end loaders and forklifts
have an overhead guard and roll over
protection?

Is the vehicle properly secured and
controls neutralized when left when
left unattended?

Are vehicles refueled out-of-doors and
with engine shut off?

Are operators instructed to back down
ramps when carrying loads?

To avoid being buried, have operators

been instructed to never undercut a
pile of fertilizer?

39

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()

()

()

()

()

()

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

()

()

()

()

()

()


HAND AND PORTABLE TOOLS
(OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.241-7

This section is intended to evaluate the effectiveness of your
small tool program. Included in this section are:

-- Hand tools (non-powered screwdrivers, hammers, chisels,
knives, picks, axes, cutters, etc.).

-- Portable power tools (electric, gasoline, pneumatic, (air)
and hydraulic).

Since accidents can occur while using hand and portable tools,
special consideration should be given to the condition and use of
these tools. Hand and portable tools are often abused by being
improperly stored and by being used for a job for which they are
not designed. An effective small] tool program includes:

-- Inspection and preventive maintenance procedures for tools
being used.

-- Training users in proper use and storage of each type of hand
and portable tool.

-- Safeguarding rotating or moving parts (points of operation).

-- Use of personal protective equipment as needed.

Read all of the questions in this section, discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about

the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Are employees who use hand tools instructed

in their safe usage? Yes ( ) No
2. Is there a program for periodic inspection
of hand and power tools? Yes ( ) No

3. Are poorly maintained or damaged tools
taken out of service before or at the
time of inspection? Yes ( ) No

4. Is personal protective equipment
required to be worn such as safety
goggles, face shields, respirators
when persons use tools on materials
producing flying chips or dust? Yes ( ) No

5. Is hand protection required when persons

use tools on materials likely to produce
splinters, burrs, or sharp edges? Yes ( ) No

n

()

()

()

()

()


Accidents involving conveyors most frequently result from
entanglement in a moving belt or roller. Serious injuries can occur
when employees fail to follow safe maintenance and operating
practices. Maintenance work should only be performed by qualified
and experienced personnel with prior approval being obtained from
the supervisor or operator.

An effective safety program for conveyor operation in fertilizer
plants includes:

-- Adequate guarding of moving parts and pinch points of conveyors.

-- Adequate and safe stairs, ladders, and walkways.

-- Periodic inspection and formal preventive maintenance of each
conveyor.

-- Formal training for operators and maintenance personnel.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your plant who know the most about the areas covered;
and while conducting a survey, complete this section with their help.

1. Are pinch points between in-running
belt and end rollers, head and tail
pulleys, and powered rollers, properly
guarded? Yes ( ) No ( )

2. Are all skate type or movable conveyors
properly placed, braced and secured prior
to use? Yes ( ) No ( )

3. Are employees prohibited from riding
conveyors? Yes () No ( )

4. Are emergency conveyor stop cords tested
periodically to assure proper operation,
proper cord tension, and proper electrical
switch mechanisms? Yes () No ( )

Forklifts/End Loaders

Almost every bulk fertilizer plant has front-end loaders and/or
forklifts. They are used to lift, move, and stack all kinds of
materials including bags, drums, pallets and bulk fertilizer
products. Front-end loaders and forklifts are not difficult to
operate. They reduce or completely eliminate manual hand] ing,
thus minimizing the chances of personal injury.

All forklift and front-end loader operators should be trained

thoroughly in operating techniques and machine characteristics
prior to being allowed to operate the vehicle.

29




NOISE
(OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.95)

Ill-effects of noise in general, and industrial noise in particular,
can be prevented by controlling noise at its source, or by protecting
the employee against the ill effects of noise. Measurement, control,
and protection from hazardous noise is a solvable technical problem.
Identification of potentially hazardous noise sources jis the first
step. After identifying the sources of noise, the establishment can
design a noise survey that will measure noise intensity, frequency
distribution, and duration, and whether continuous or impact noise
results. In addition, the level of noise exposure that employees
experience can be evaluated to determine possible threat of
noise-induced hearing loss, as well as other il] effects resulting
from excessive noise exposure.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your establishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this section with
their help.

1. Have work areas where noise levels make
voice communication between employees
difficult, been identified? Yes () No ( )

2. Is approved hearing protective equipment
(noise attenuating devices) available to
every employee working in these areas and
is it required that it be worn? Yes () No ()

22


14,

16.
17.

18.

Are there selected personnel to
investigate and possibly begin fire-
fighting operations before the fire
department arrives?

Are there selected personnel to safely
direct firemen to the fire location and
inform them of any other hazards in the
vicinity that might develop due to the fire?

Are recommended periodic fire drills held?

Does the plant have a pre-written fire
and emergency plan?

Are routes of emergency egress well
marked and are employees required to
maintain familiarity with means of exiting?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()
()

()

()

No

No
No

No

No

()

()
()

()


Dealers should check with local and State agencies to determine
if they also require reporting of spills and accidental releases.

The Department of Transportation requires that accidents and
incidents involving hazardous materials and any accidental release
of hazardous materials from a package or shipment, be reported to
the Secretary, Hazardous Materials Regulations Board, 400 Sixth
Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20590. A written report must be made
within 15 days of occurrence. Telephone notice must be made if
hazardous materials are involved in any of the following:

Death of a person.

Injury requiring hospitalization of one or more
persons.

Damage of $50,000 or more to carrier and/or any
other property.

A critical situation such as continuing danger to
life or property.

EPA Regulations

At this writing, only a few EPA regulations apply specifically to
retail fertilizer plants. Dealers should take appropriate pre-
cautionary measures that will prevent product spills and excessive
discharges from around their plant. These measures include the
Proper selection and maintenance of plant and field equipment,
training employees, and pre-planning for potential emergencies.

In the event of a spill of a hazardous substance, the dealer is
responsible for reporting the spill to the proper local, State,
and Federal agencies and for cleaning up the spill as quickly as
possible.

CHEMTREC

CHEMTREC is the acronym for Chemical Transportation Emergency Center,
a public service of the Chemical Manufacturers Association (CMA) at
its offices in Washington, D.C.: CMA, 1825 Connecticut Avenue, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20009.

CHEMTREC provides immediate advice for those at the scene of
transportation emergencies, then promptly contacts the shipper
of the chemicals involved for more detailed assistance and
appropriate follow-up.

4


3.

Are safety cans used for dispensing

liquids at the point of use where not
bulk handling?

Are all containers and tanks properly
labeled? ‘

Are large storage containers of flammable
and combustible liquids sufficiently diked
or curbed to. collect or direct leakage,

including water added for fire protection?

10

Yes ( ) No ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

No ( )

No ( )


PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
(OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.132 - 137)

Personal protective equipment is required whenever toxic or other
substances can do bodily harm through absorption, inhalation, or
physical contact. Various potential environments, chemicals, and
mechanical irritants constitute hazards for which protective

clothing and respiratory devices, are required. Personal protective
equipment is no substitute for engineering and administrative controls,
and good work practices. However, where processes make engineering
controls impossible or until they can be accomplished, where
administrative controls are subject to labor negotiations or until they
can be implemented, then appropriate personal protective equipment is
required. It is required whenever there is a potential for harm such
as a blown or leaky valve, fire, welding tank or vessel entry, danger
of falling objects and similar potential hazards.

All personal protective equipment must be properly designed and
sufficiently well constructed with proper fitting to provide the
protection for which it is intended. It must be maintained in a
sanitary and reliable condition. Damaged or improperly labeled
devices must be reported, replaced or repaired before use.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Do hard hats used by employees meet the
requirements of American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) standard? Yes ( ) No ( )

2. Is wearing approved industrial eye protection
required at all times when exposed to
potential eye hazards? Yes () No ( )

3. Are employees who use respiratory equipment
properly fitted and instructed in their proper
use, and required to clean, inspect, and
sanitize them? Yes ( ) No ( )

4. Does all safety toe footwear conform to the
ANSI standard? Yes () No ( )

23


14.

15.

Are all bulk carrying vehicles equipped with
at least five gallons of water and with a
full face mask?

Is the applicator's flow-control devices
inspected on a regular basis and repaired
or replaced as needed?

Are the screens cleaned frequently?

Is the wearing of contact lenses prohibited
while handling ammonia?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()

()
()

()

Liquid Nurse Tanks, Pull-Type and Self-Propelled Applicators

Vo

Are nurse tanks and applicator tanks
identified as meeting ASME requirements?

Are personnel trained in technique of
transferring liquid fertilizer?

Are pull-type vehicles equipped with
safety chains and hitch pin?

Are all vehicles identified with
recommended maximum towing speed?

Are all moving parts guarded?

Are pull-type and self-propelled vehicles
operated within Federal and State rules?

Are pull-type and self-propelled vehicles
constructed and maintained in conformance
with Federal and State rules?

Are operators required to wear appropriate
personal protective equipment?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()

()

()

()
()

()

()

()

No (

No (

No (

No (

No (


APPENDIX A

PESTICIDES
HEALTH HAZARDS, LABELING, AND FIRST AID

Although pesticides are not necessarily a part of the retail fertilizer
distribution industry; a discussion appears in the appendix as many
retailers and distributors also handle pesticides.

Even a small amount of some pesticides entering the body can cause
serious illness or death. Harmful amounts can enter the body by:

(1) absorption through the skin; (2) inhalation; or (3) accidental
ingestion, through smoking, eating, or consuming beverages on the job.

Before handling any pesticide, the labels should always be read and
understood. Product labels will show that great care has been used
to correctly describe the product, the potential hazards involved,
handling methods and what to do in case of poisoning or overexposure.
Generally, there will be a list of warning statements headed by the
word "Danger" which describe the primary hazards and what should be
done to avoid them.

The labels on all "Poison" category products should contain the
basic information needed to handle the product safely. Pesticides
should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated, separate room, building
or covered area, dedicated exclusively to pesticides storage and
where appropriate fire protection is provided.

With increased pesticides use, the problems associated with the safe
and proper handling and disposal of pesticides and pesticide containers
have also increased. Studies are underway in the development of
disposal methods. Both the pesticide industry and the Environmental
Protection Agency are working toward the promulgation of specific and
definitive disposal procedures. Until these efforts are available, it
is recommended that the guidelines established by the Environmental
Protection Agency as outlined in their publication, “Pesticides and
Pesticide Containers, Regulations for Acceptance and Recommended
Procedures for Disposal and Storage", be followed.

Where large amounts of pesticides are stored, the local fire
department should be informed of the potential hazards that such
pesticides may present if there is a fire. A floor plan of the
storage area, including current inventory of the pesticides, by
classification, should be provided. Telephone numbers of those
responsible for the pesticide storage should be given to fire
personnel. Inspections by the fire department are encouraged.
Emergency plans for fires or spills should be prepared and reviewed
frequently.

49


CONTENTS

DAISCUENIIETPc 0 000000000000 000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 ii
Foreword. . tii
Preface. o OW
Abstract vit
Acknowledgements... .cccsccscccccs cere recente t eee tens eeeneeeeeeteeeee: xi
Application Equipment......ccscveccccccvcvsccvevcsscevececcssesessces 1
Dry Spreaders - Pull-Type and Self-Propelled 2
Ammonia Nurse Tanks and Applicators........ 4
Liquid Nurse Tanks and Applicators 5
Fire Prevention - Fire Protection... 6
Flammable and Combustible Liquids... 9
Hand and Portable Tools........ 211
Hazardous Materials..... o Us)
Job Planning - Job Briefing. 16
Machinery and Machine Guarding V7
Processing Procedures......... 18
Material Handling and Storage. 19
Medical and First Aid......... 20
NOISE... cesscccsesceseccevcecs 22
Personal Protective Equipment. « 23
Plant Equipment............... . 25
RISCEMICE sb ona00Q90000000000000 » 25
Hoists, Cables, Chains, Cranes . 26
Bucket Elevators.. » 27
CONVEYOVS...eeeeeeeeecee 28
Forklifts, End Loaders. . 29
Pumps, Compressors..... ~ 31
Plant Facilities...... « 32
Buildings, Warehouse. « 32
Plant Yard......... + 33
Tankage.......eeeee « 33
Receiving and Shipping Procedures . 36
Railroad Cars.....eeeeeeeeeeee - 36
Anhydrous Ammonia...... . 37
Self-Propelled Vehicles......scceeeeeesceeeeee 37
End Loaders, Forklift, and Hand Truck Operation. . 38
Recordkeeping. « 40
Sanitation......... » 41
Storage Procedures... « 42
Ammonium Nitrate.. 42
SMMMPooopapego0o00cD00000 - B
Walking and Working Surfaces... ~ 45
Welding, Cutting, and Brazing - 46
Appendix... » 49
A. Pesticides.......seee5 + 49
B. NIOSH Regional Offices.. ~ 51
C. OSHA Regional OFFICES... cece cece eee cece e tere cence reece enenee 52

ix


MEDICAL AND FIRST AID

Medical recommendations must be appropriate for worksite conditions
and potential hazards. They must also be consistent with the goals
of management and the requirements of labor. Medical recommendations
must not be so lax that the safety and health of workers are
compromised, nor so stringent that employment and retention of an
individual are unfairly limited.

Medical or first-aid stations at each facility should have readily
available industry safety data sheets on all potentially harmful
chemicals. These provide useful information and should be available
through the purchasing office of the products' manufacturer.

Some companies place this requirement on their purchase order forms.

Qualifications of occupational medical personnel including physicians,
nurses, and first aiders vary widely throughout the industry. It is
important that supervisors make sure that the medical personnel,
whether salaried or contracted, whether full or part-time service,
visit the plant sites to thoroughly familiarize themselves with the
potential for harm. The National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH) provides informative materials useful for this
purpose. (NIOSH, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45226.)

NIOSH has available a Health Hazard Evaluation program, whereby an
employer or employee may request an on-site visit to determine whether
a health hazard exists. Application should be made through the NIOSH
Regional Office (see appendix). OSHA has a consultation program
available to assist in improving work-site safety and health.
Application should be made through the OSHA Regional Office (see
appendix). These services are useful where there is a potential in
health effects from chronic exposure, as well as acute toxic exposure.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about the
areas covered; and while conducting a survey, preferably with a
physician and nurse, complete this section with their help.

1. Are appropriate medical facilities
(relevant to the number of employees and
types of potential exposed) available
for all employees? Yes ( ) No ( )

2. Have the first-aiders in each section on

each shift received training by the
American Red Cross or equivalent? Yes ( ) No ( )

20




MACHINERY AND MACHINE GUARDING
(OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.211-219)

The potential for personal injury is inherent in the use of almost
any powered machinery or equipment. Therefore, it is necessary to
develop and follow safe procedures to control potential hazards.
An effective safety program for machine operation in fertilizer
plants include:

-- Adequate guarding of the moving parts of all machines.

-- Periodic inspection and formal preventive maintenance of each
machine.

-- Formal training for machine operators and maintenance personnel.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Is there a regular program of safety
inspections of machinery and equipment? Yes () No (

2. Are manually operated valves and switches
controlling the operation of equipment and
machines clearly identified and readily
access ible? Yes ( ) No (

3. Are all pulleys, sprockets, gears, chains,
and belts that are within 7 feet of the
floor or working level properly guarded? Yes () No (

4. Are safety glasses, face shields, or other
eye protective equipment required to be worn? Yes ( ) No (

5. Before new abrasive wheels are mounted, are
they visually inspected and "ring" tested? Yes ( ) No (

6. Are employees who operate revolving or
reciprocating tools or equipment required
to remove or secure loose clothing, jewelry,
and long hair? Yes () No (

7. Are methods provided to protect the
operator and other employees in the
machine area from hazards created at
point of operation, nip points,
rotating parts, flying chips, and sparks? Yes () No (

8. Do guards have openings no larger than
1/2 inch? Yes ( ) No (

9. Are defective guards repaired or replaced
promptly and absent guards installed? Yes ( ) No (

7


The results of completing the SEI should be made available to all
of the workers, and their help enlisted in correcting detected
deficiencies.

After the results of the first use of the SEI are evaluated and
acted upon, periodically repeating the self-evaluation procedure
will afford management and employees the opportunity to judge the
effectiveness of existing controls and to obtain a measure of
assurance that their work environment continues to comply with State
and Federal OSHA standards.

The SEI is intended to be used with a companion publication
"Self-Evaluation of Occupational Safety and Health Programs"
(DHEW(NIOSH) Publication No. 78-187] which will answer most of the
questions that may arise in the process of completing the SEI. The
publication presents a concept whereby management and labor can join
together to recognize and prevent or control potential hazards. It
presents a basic information core applicable to most industries,
with a program for self-evaluation and steps needed for
implementation.

Loren L. Hatch, D.0., Ph.D., Medical Officer (Occupational
Medicine)

Frank W. Godbey, Industrial Hygienist and Safety
Specialist

dames D. Massie, Vice-President, Transportation,
The Fertilizer Institute

Wilbur C. Copeland, Farmland Industries, Incorporated
Albert V. Malone, Agway, Incorporated

George A. Michie, Chevron Chemical Company

Dale R. Morris, MAPCO

Jean C. Sliger, BCM, Incorporated

vi


PREFACE

Good work practice or proper procedure, is the application of an
accumulated body of knowledge which may be defined to include those
tasks, skills, and instincts recognized by labor groups and industry
as being practical and necessary to protect the safety and health of
workers, where no standards exist or where they are desirable as a
supplement to existing standards. Through voluntary self-evaluation,
Management and labor can participate in a coordinated procedure to
accomplish the goal of a safe and healthful work environment.

This "Self-Evaluation Instrument (SEI) Retail Fertilizer Distribution
and Transportation Industry" has been developed by professionals in
occupational safety, industrial hygiene, and occupational medicine -
persons well acquainted with the problems associated with Retail
Fertilizer Distribution and Transportation Industry. This instrument
has been designed to deal with the operations, good work practices,
Proper procedures, and regulations within the fertilizer industry and
to provide management with guidelines to be implemented in
cooperation with their workers.

Good work practices also may be based upon industry policy and
negotiated work agreements rather than any legal requirement.
Many accepted proper procedures are implemented for the purpose of
complying with the general duty portion (Sec. 5) of the OSH Act
(PL 91-596).

Each section begins with a brief explanation of the potential
occupational safety and health hazards that may exist as the result
of the operations or procedures covered by that section.

Following these explanatory paragraphs, questions are presented to
establish the existing status of specific activity in terms of its
potential to produce injury or illness. A "Yes" answer indicates
appropriate controls are in place. A "No" answer indicates changes
may be necessary or that controls are absent or ineffective; or that
a safe work practice is being violated. Because of the broad scope
of this manual, some sections may not be applicable to a particular
work environment.

The SEI is designed so that those persons most familiar with a
specific operation or procedure will be able to respond to questions
relating to that particular situation. Each section of the SEI
should be reproduced and given to the person responsible for the work
to which it applies. The supervisor and employees doing the work can
then complete their particular section.


FIRE PREVENTION - FIRE PROTECTION
(OSHA STANDARDS 29 CFR 1910.155-165)

Employees must be thoroughly familiar with all fire prevention measures and
must be capable of effectively fighting fires. Fire protection equipment
must be readily accessible at all times and in ready-to-use condition.

An effective program for the prevention and control of fire in
fertilizer plants includes.

-- Periodic training of employees who fight fires in methods of fire
prevention and use of fire-fighting equipment.

-- Proper storage and handling of combustible and flammable
residues and wastes.

-- Good housekeeping practices.

-- Electrical facilities suitable for hazard areas.

-- An emergency action plan, including emergency egress,
in case of fire.

-- Regular inspection and maintenance of fire-fighting equipment,
systems, and protective equipment.

-- Well maintained, accessibly and frequently inspected
fire signalling system.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Are properly classified fire extinguishers
readily accessible in all work areas? Yes ( ) No ( )

2. Are fire extinguishers maintained in a
fully charged and operable condition? Yes () No ()

3. Are fire extinguishers kept at their
designated locations when not in use? Yes ( ) No()

4. Are fire extinguishers mounted near the
hazard against which they are designed
to protect? Yes ( ) No ( )

5. If located in an area where visual
obstruction, may occur are extinguisher
locations designated by signs or other
mark ings? Yes ( ) No ( )

6. When required are fire extinguisher
inspections and maintenance properly
recorded? Yes ( ) No( )




When portable electric power tools are
used in grounding hazard locations, is
power provided from an approved isolated
power source or a 12-volt system, as a
good work practice?

Are hand held electric powered tools
equipped with a constant pressure switch
or control?

Are portable abrasive wheel grinders

equipped with:

a. Throat guards or spark arrestors used
to protect against pieces of broken
wheel?

b. Are these guards adjusted to within
1/4 inch of the wheel?

c. Are tool retainers used on pneumatic
powered tools?

Is compressed air used for cleaning reduced
to less than 30 p.s.i., and only when
effective chip guarding and personal
protection equipment is in place?

12

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()

()

()
()

()

No

No

No

No

No

No

()

()

()

()
()

()


‘SELF-EVALUATION
INSTRUMENT--

FERTILIZER RETAIL
and DISTRIBUTION
INDUSTRY

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service

Center for Disease Control

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health


B. Ammonia Storage

a

Is the proper identifying nameplate
on the tank?

Are the main operating valves
identified?

Are the appurtenances made from
materials impervious to ammonia and
recommended by the manufacturer for
ammonia service?

Are the 2000-30,000 gallon capacity
storage tanks located properly?

Are relief valves, back check valvés

and/or excess flow valves properly
located?

35

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()

()

()

()

No

No

No

No

No

()

()

()

()

()


ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Self-evaluation is a systematic approach to aid workers and management in
identifying potential safety and health problems in their workplace. NIOSH
is pleased to have had the opportunity to work with The Fertilizer Institute
in the development of this document; with special thanks to the officers and
staff of TFI.

The authors are indebted to the following individuals and firms for

their support in this endeavor:

Agway, Incorporated

Michael J. Papai, Division Mgr.
P.O. Box 4933

Syracuse, New York 13221

BCM, Incorporated

Robert B. Johnson, President
5384 Poplar Avenue

Memphis, Tennessee 38117

Chevron Chemical Company
R.H. Matzke, Vice-President and

Farmland Industries, Inc.

James Conner, Sr. Vice-President,
Manufacturing

P.O. Box 7305

Kansas City, Missouri 64116

MAPCO

J. Kennedy Kincaid, Jr.

Sr. Vice-President, Indian Point
Division

Rural Route 2

Athens, Illinois 62613

General Manager
Fertilizer Division
P. 0. Box 3744
San Francisco, California 94119

NIOSH personnel devoted much time, talent, and expertise in preparing
this document for publication. The following are particularly
acknowledged:

Marshall E. LaNier, Director
Division of Technical Services

Madonna Allen
Lynne Kallas,
Austin Henschel, Ph.D.
Gayla M. Webb

Technical Reviewers: David Clapp, Ph.D., DTMD
Robert M. Delmage, DTS
Mitchell Singal, M.D., DSHEFS

Special thanks go to Jerry Purswell, Director, Safety Standards Programs,
OSHA, and his staff for their technical review of the document.

A special acknowledgment goes to Edward Estkowski, OSHA, Washington, D.C.,
for his critique, comments, and cooperation.

xi




10.

11.

Are eyes protected (by eye/face protection)
from ultraviolet (UV) radiation?

Is adequate ventilation provided during
welding?

Are trained workers assigned to perform
welding and cutting?

48

Yes () No ()
Yes () No ( )

Yes () No()


Pumps/Compressors

Liquid fertilizer and ammonia utilize various types of pumps to transfer
product into the plant, the mixer and to lead vehicles. Even though
liquid fertilizer poses less of a hazard to employees than anhydrous
ammonia; yet, both products are transferred under pressure and
employees must be trained in the proper handling and safety precautions
associated with the particular product.

The questions below are intended to be utilized for both liquid pumps,
ammonia pumps and compressors. There are problems of personal safety
surrounding these devices and at the same time, there are hazards
associated with the product itself that is being transferred.

1. Are pumps of a design and materials of
construction generally acceptable as
suitable to withstand the working
pressure and corrosive action of material

being pumped? Yes ( ) No ( )
2. Are pumps located clear of operating area

and with ample room for maintenance? Yes () No ( )
3. Are pump vents and drains directed

away from operators? Yes () No ()
4, Are-relief valves kept operable? Yes ( ) No ( )

5. Is pump maintenance undertaken periodically? Yes () No ( )

6. Are all lines and compartments depressurized
prior to maintenance or repairs? Yes ( ) No ( )

7. Are moving parts guarded? Yes ( ) No ( )

8. Is associated piping properly sized for
the pumps function and capacity? Yes () No ( )

9. Are hoses properly sized, installed
and inspected to insure safe use? Yes ( ) No ( )

31


MATERIAL HANDING AND STORAGE
(OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.176- 190)

Material is moved, either by hand or mechanical means, in every
business and industry. Accidents involving material handling
account for 20-30% of all occupational injuries. The questions
in this section are designed to identify potential hazards
resulting from methods of handling and storing material and to
evaluate the establishments program to protect employees from
these hazards. An effective material handling and storage
program includes:

-- Training in safe work practices.
-- Proper use of equipment, tools, and protective equipment to
reduce injury and illness.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the question
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Is there a recommended limit on the maximum
weight a worker is permitted to lift by
himself without equipment? Yes ( ) No

2. Are workers employed in manual material
handling trained in proper lifting
techniques? Yes ( ) No

3. Is all stored material kept from under
or adjacent to overhead electric

transmission lines? Yes ( ) No
4. Is all material kept at least 2 feet from
a fire door? Yes ( ) No

5. Are employees familiarized with proceedings
to follow in cleaning up and disposing of
spills? Yes ( ) No

19

()

()

()

()


RECEIVING AND SHIPPING PROCEDURES

All fertilizer plants and distribution center receive products from
suppliers by truckand/or rail. Retail plants ship products usually by
self-propelled or pull type vehicles; however, some also ship by
tractor/trailer, and in rare instances, by rail. Mobile equipment
(i.e., end-loaders) and material handling equipment (i.e., bucket
elevators and piping) are used to load or unload the trucks,
applicators and rail cars.

Work around a fertilizer plant is quite varied and employees may
be exposed to different pieces of equipment while performing their
job. The questions in this section are designed to identify
potential hazards to employees resulting from unsafe procedures
during receiving and shipping and to evaluate the plant's program
to protect employees.

Railroad Cars

Most fertilizer plants receive some products by rail car and
occasionally a plant may be equipped to load box cars, tank cars,
and/or hopper cars. Employees can be exposed to several potentially
hazardous situations while unloading/loading rail cars; however,
these hazards can be minimized through proper safety precautions.
This section is intended to evaluate the safety procedures and
operating practices for protecting employees from these hazards.

Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about the
areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this section
with their help.

1. When the rail car is spotted at the
load-out station, are the brakes set
and wheels chocked? Yes () No ( )

2. Are employees prohibited from standing
on top of rail cars while they are being
Moved or coupled? Yes () No ( )

3. Are employees prohibited from climbing
over the coupler of connected cars and
from walk ing between closely spotted
uncoupled cars? Yes () No ( )

4. When an employee enters a hopper car is
he/she required to wear a safety harness
and is a standby person present? Yes () No ( )

36


PROCESSING PROCEDURES

The basic manufacturing process in a bulk fertilizer plant is mixing.
Mixing is simply the physical blending of basic fertilizer materials,
either dry or liquid. Although the types of mixers vary, there are
inherent potential safety hazards common to each.

All mixers use some electrical powered and/or potential mechanical
type equipment that requires grounding, guarding of belts and chains,
etc. Conveyors and/or pumps requiring safety precautions are used
to feed and unload mixers. Therefore, as with other powered
machinery and equipment, it is necessary to develop and follow safe
procedures to control the potential hazards.

The questions in the following sections are designed to identify
potential hazards to employees resulting from unsafe process
procedures or poor work practices’ and to evaluate the plant's
program to protect employees.

Read all of the questions in this section, discuss the questions
with those workers at your plant who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this section with
their help.

1. Are chemical goggles or full face shields
required to be worn in designated areas? Yes ( ) No ()

2. Are vessels and equipment constructed of a
suitable material to withstand the corrosive
action of the material being mixed? Yes () No ( )

3. Are safe ladders and platforms provided for
climbing around mixers? Yes ( ) No ( )

4. Is the blending operation discontinued
before inspections or repairs are
attempted? Yes ( ) No ( )

5. Have operators been trained in proper
operating procedures for blending equipment? Yes () No()

6. Are guards placed over moving parts before
beginning blending operations? Yes () No()

18




ABSTRACT

So that employers and employees within the retail fertilizer
industry can more readily recognize potential occupational
hazards, a series of comments and self-evaluation questions
applicable to this industry has been prepared. This field-
tested, systematic questionnaire approach addresses
identifiable work areas and work situations within the retail
fertilizer industry.

After responsible persons complete a walk-through investigation
and answer the questions, and after the conditions of all work
areas are further evaluated, those areas that need improving
will be obvious. Because pertinent occupational safety and
health standards for fertilizer substances are included,
implementing corrective action should provide a measure of
assurance that regulatory standards are being met.

A companion document "Self-Evaluation of Occupational Safety
and Health Programs" gives basic information applicable to

all industries and should be used with "Self-Evaluation

Retail Fertilizer Distribution-Industry" to aid in implementing
a comprehensive occupational safety and health program.

vil


FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
(OSHA STANDARDS 29 CFR 1910. 106)

Improper storage, handling, and use of flammable and combustible liquids
have resulted in numerous expensive fires and many serious injuries and
deaths. Proper storage must be provided for such materials and employees
must be trained in approved methods of handling and using them.

Due to the great number and variety of flammable and combustible liquids
with widespread use in the retail fertilizer and distribution industry,
many persons are unfamiliar with the variety of varying properties of
these liquids. Before using any material, employees should be encouraged
to read the labels on all containers and make sure that each container is
Properly identified and labeled, before using. The storage and use of
agricultural products is seasonal. Employees should be made aware of any
seasonal modification of the standards.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your establishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this section with their
help.

1. If flammable or combustible liquids are kept in an outside
storage room or area: (If not, go to Question 2).

a. Are all containers in a secure position

to prevent tipping or spilling? Yes ( ) No ( )
b. Is proper drainage provided? Yes () No ( )
c. Are weeds and other vegetation kept

clear of the area? Yes ( ) No ( )
d. Are all sources of ignition prohibited

in area? Yes () No ( )
e. Are quantities stored in accordance

to 29CFR 1910.106 (6)? Yes () No ( )

2. If flammable or combustible liquids are kept in an inside
storage room: (If not, go to question 3).

a. Does the room conform to National Fire

Protection Association requirements,

and OSHA? Yes ( ) No ( )
b. Are all containers and drums properly

grounded where required and where this

will not create a hazard? Yes ( ) No ( )
c. Are containers of over 30-gallon capacity

stacked no more than two high? Yes ( ) No (
d. Is fire protection provided? Yes () No (
e. Are “No Smoking" signs posted? Yes ( ) No ()
f. Are quantities stored in accordance

to 29CFR 1910.106 (5)? Yes ( ) No ( )


WELDING, CUTTING, AND BRAZING
(OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.251-252)

The use of welding, cutting, and brazing equipment, especially by
occasional users, poses potentially hazardous problems. All persons
authorized to use such equipment must be trained in the proper
safeguards. Observers, if allowed, must be as well protected as
the operator.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

Oxygen-Fuel Gas Welding and Cutting

1. Are precautions taken to prevent the mixture
of air or oxygen with flammable gases except

at the burner or in a standard torch? Yes () No ( )
2. Is the use of liquid acetylene prohibited? Yes () No ()
3. Are flashback arrestors used? Yes () No ( )

4. Are only approved apparatus (torches,
regulators, pressure-reducing valves,
acetylene generators, manifolds) used? Yes () No ()

5. When inside buildings, are cylinders
secured and stored in a well-ventilated,
dry location at least 20 feet from

combustible materials? Yes () No ( )
6. Do empty cylinders have their valves

closed? Yes ( ) No ( )
7. Are all cylinders stored valve-end up? Yes () No ( )

8. Is care taken not to drop or strike
cylinders? Yes () No ( )

9. Is it prohibited to lift or pry up
cylinders by valve-protection caps? Yes () No ()

10. If trouble is experienced with a cylinder

valve, is the supplier notified and are
his instructions followed? Yes () No ()

46


Region VII

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Federal Building, Room 3000,

911 Walnut Street

Kansas City, Missouri 64106............ Telephone:

Region VIII

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Federal Building, Room 15010

1961 Stout Street

Denver, Colorado 80202.........eeeeeeee Telephone:

Region IX

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration
9470 Federal Building

450 Golden Gate Avenue

Post Office Box 36017

San Francisco, California 94105........ Telephone:

Region X

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration
6048 Federal Office Building

909 First Avenue

Seattle, Washington 98174.............. Telephone:

53

816/374-5861

303/837-3883

415/556-0584

206/442-5930

Ye U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE :1980--657-147/1046


10.

i.

T2.

Are all electrical controls and switches
marked as to their use?

Are transformers, control boards, switches,
motor starters and other equipment installed

in such a way as to avoid accidental energizing

and that the possibility of accidental
contact with energized conductors is reduced
to a minimum?

Are motors of the type and size required for
the load and conditions provided?

Are metal parts of all electric equipment
including transformers, control boards,
and motors, as well as metal framework of
buildings, effectively grounded?

Are fuses provided of the right capacity
to protect equipment and workers?

Are fuse block and switches installed with
the fuse on the "dead side" when the switch
is pulled? Are fuse pullers required to be
used to remove fuses?

Are circuit breakers regularly checked to
see that moving parts do not stick?

Are permanent installations fitted with
permanent wiring?
Are flexible cords and cables prohibited

as a substitute for permanent wiring?

Is all electrical equipment approved
for its intended use?

Hoists, Cables, Chains, Cranes

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

Yes ( )

No ( )

No ( )

No ( )

No ( )

No ( )

No ()

No ( )

No ( )

No ( )

No ( )

Ropes, chains, cables, overhead cranes, mobile cranes, lifting and
other hoisting devices are very commonly used in bulk fertilizer

plants.

There are inherent potential hazards in using these devices.

These hazards must be recognized and safe work practices followed to
accomplish the goal of preventing accidents during the use of the
equipment.

26


Read all the questions in this section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your plant who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this section with
their help.

1. Are ropes, cables, slings, chains, and hooks
used within the working range specified? Yes ( ) No ( )

2. Are defective slings removed from service
immediately? Yes () No ( )

3. Is all hoisting equipment (chain or rope
hoists, “come-alongs", winch trucks, etc.)
thoroughly checked periodically? Yes ( ) No ()

4. Are there at least two full wraps of cable
on the drum of hoists at all times of
operation? Yes () No ( )

5. Are knots prohibited in wire rope? Yes () No ( )

6. Are persons prohibited from standing or
passing under a load on the hook? Yes ( ) No ( )

7. Are weighted hooks left on the ground
at the end of a work period? Yes ( ) No ()

Bucket Elevators

Many retail fertilizer plants and distribution centers use bucket
elevators to fill buildings, hoppers, mixers and free-standing bins
with product. Elevators are also used to remove product from storage
or the mixer for loading into spreaders and applicators. The most
common injuries involving bucket elevators result from falls and
entanglement of body or clothing in belts, chains and other drive
components. These injuries are preventable.

Elevator maintenance should always be handled by qualified and
experienced personnel. Maintenance should not be performed when
equipment is in operation.

An effective safety program for bucket elevator operation includes:
-- Adequate guarding of moving parts.
-- Periodic inspection and formal preventive maintenance

program of elevator.
-- Formal training for operators and maintenance personnel.

27


STORAGE PROCEDURES

Ammonium Nitrate

Ammonium nitrate fertilizer is an oxidizing material and will
support combustion if involved in a fire. With simple precautions,
ammonium nitrate fertilizer can be stored safely at a plant, in
warehouses, or on the farm. As in the case of any oxidizing agent
(stimulates the burning of combustible materials), ammonium nitrate
fertilizer requires common-sense treatment during transportation,
storage, and use. A review of the experience in handling millions
of tons of the material, by rail, truck, ship, and in warehousing,
has demonstrated that this product can be handled with complete
safety.

The questions in this section are designed to identify potential
hazards resulting from storing ammonium nitrate and to evaluate
the plant's program to protect employees.

Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a walk-through survey,
complete this section with their help.

1. Are storage buildings adequately ventilated
or of construction that will be self-
ventilating in event of a fire? Yes () No ()

2. Is flooring in storage and handling areas
constructed of non-combustible materials
or protected against ammonium nitrate
‘impregnation? Yes () No ( )

3. Have floor drains, pits, etc. been
plugged to prevent molten ammonium
nitrate from entering? Yes () No ( )

4. Are all points of entry to warehouses
where ammonium nitrate is stored labeled
with "Ammonium Nitrate"? Yes ( ) No ( )

5. Are internal combustion vehicles
prohibited from being left unattended
in ammonium nitrate storage buildings,
as a good work practice? Yes( ) No ( )

6. Are automatic sprinkler systems installed
jin warehouses when storage exceeds 2500
tons of ammonium nitrate? Yes () No ( )

42


CHEMTREC OPERATES 24 HOURS A DAY, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. TO RECEIVE
DIRECT-DIAL TOLL-FREE INFORMATION FROM ANY POINT IN THE
CONTINENTAL UNITED STATES, TELEPHONE: 800-424-9300 (483-7616 FOR
CALLS ORIGINATING WITHIN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA).

Because chemicals have so many uses and have such a wide range

of characteristics, there is need for wide dissemination of
information about them. It is important to understand that
CHEMTREC is not intended and is not prepared to function as a
general information source, but by design is an information
disseminator and assistance locator for emergencies involving
hazardous chemical cargo. This telephone number should be posted
at appropriate locations.

15


WALKING AND WORKING SURFACES
(OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.22-30)

All places of employment, passageways, storerooms, and service rooms
must be kept clean and orderly and, as much as possible, in a dry
condition. Where mechanical handling equipment is used, safe
clearances must be allowed for aisles, at loading docks, through
doorways, and wherever turns or passages must be made. Aisles and
passageways must be kept clear and appropriately marked.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Are all walkways provided with sufficient
lighting? Yes () No ( )

2. Are all holes and openings provided with
guardrails, or fitted with a flush cover
of sufficient strength for the anticipated
load? Yes ( ) No ( )

3. Are signs showing floor load capacity
present? Yes ( ) No ( )

4. If no cage, well, or ladder safety device
is provided on a fixed ladder, is there a
landing platform for each 20 feet of
vertical climb or fraction thereof? Yes () No ( )

5. Are walkways kept clear of possible
safety hazartds? Yes () No ( )

6. Are floors and steps made with a slip

resistant surface, where dampness may
create a problem? Yes ( ) No ()

45




FOREWORD

This document, designed for the retail fertilizer industry, is one
of a series of industry self-evaluation instruments that provides an
additional approach to promoting safety and health among employers
and employees in industry.

The concept of voluntary self-evaluation is an adjunct to existing
regulatory procedures and is intended to improve awareness of the
need to develop comprehensive occupational safety and health
programs.

The development of this concept in cooperation with the industry
and employees involved is another means by which NIOSH attempts to
fulfill its responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and

Health Act of 1970.
fitters (Gobins

Anthony bins, M.D.
Director, National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health

iii


-- Preparation of the tank:
Conditioning the tank.
Ventilating the tank.
Mobilizing powered equipment.
Testing the tank atmosphere.
Insuring adequate oxygen for workers.
-- Safety requirements for entry.
-- Emergency rescue procedures.

The primary cause of accidents and deaths are improper tank entries and
violations of safety procedures. Additionally, many accidents have
occurred during routine maintenance because of failure to follow safety
procedures that have resulted in loss of life, sight, and limbs as well
as in burns, cuts, and severe bodily injury.

Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your establishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a walk-through survey, complete this
section with their help.

A. Liquid storage (low and non-pressure solution):

1. Are tanks of design and materials of
construction to withstand the working
pressure and corrosive action of
material stored? Yes () No ( )

2. In air compressor system, is a backflow
check valve provided to prevent liquid
from entering the compressor? Yes () No ( )

3. Is the piping vent directed down, or
away from operators? Yes () No ( )

4. Is piping free of strain and supported
so as to avoid strains on pump? Yes () No ( )

5. Is all piping, including tubing, hose,
fittings gaskets, packing, etc., made
of materials suitable for use with
materials being transported and designed
for the maximum pressure to which they
may be subjected? Yes ( ) No ( )

6. Has adequate protection been given all
exposed piping from physical damage that
might result from moving machinery,
equipment, and vehicles? Yes () No()

7. Are employees familiarized with
procedures to be followed when a leak
is discovered? Yes () No ( )

34


PLANT FACILITIES

Build ings/Warehous es

Dry fertilizer is most commonly stored in horizontal wooden
buildings that are subdivided by partition walls into various
numbers and sizes of bins. Fertilizer is loaded into the building
by conveyors, bucket elevators and blower trucks; it is generally
removed by end-loaders. Many plants also have warehouses for
storing bagged fertilizer and other packaged material such as
pesticides, seeds, etc.

The questions in this section are designed to identify potential
hazards to employees resulting from working in dry bulk buildings
and to evaluate the plant's program to protect employees from these
hazards. An effective safety program includes:

-- Systematic inspection and formal preventive maintenance of
the warehouse and related equipment.

-- Formal training of operators and maintenance personnel.

-- Appropriate fire fighting equipment.

Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your establishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a walk-through survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Are floors and platforms kept clean
and in good repair? Yes () No ( )

2. Are aisle ways, passageways and exits
clean and clear? Yes () No ( )

3. Are all exits so marked and at least 22
inches wide? Yes () No ( )

4. Are all gas cylinders secured or chained
in a manner to prevent their falling or
being knocked over? Yes () No ()

5. Is the direction of exits, when not
immediately apparent, marked with visible

signs and illuminated when necessary? Yes () No ( )
6. Have damaged, old, and deteriorated air

hoses been replaced? Yes () No ( )
7. Is stored material stable and secure? Yes () No ()

32


DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
‘ PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE
CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL
NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
ROBERT A. TAFT LABORATORIES
4676 COLUMBIA PARKWAY, CINCINNATI, OHIO 45226

OFFICIAL BUSINESS
PENALTY FOR PRIVATE USE. $300

Third Class Mail

POSTAGE AND FEES PAID
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HHS
HHS 396

DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 80—149


Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your establishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this section with
their help.

Dry Pull-Type and Self-Propelled Spreaders

1. Are safety chains and hitch pins in
good condition? Yes ( ) No ( )

2. Is spreader identified with recommended
maximum towing speed? Yes ( ) No ( )

3. Is identification of owner placed on
spreader? Yes ( ) No ( )

4. Are all safety shields and guards in place?
(e.g., belt drive guards) Yes () No ( )

5. Is PTO (power-take-off) shaft regularly
inspected and properly guarded? Yes ( ) No( )

6. Are tires regularly inspected and properly
maintained? Yes () No ( )

7. Are wheel bearings inspected and greased
regularly? Yes () No ( )

8. Are brakes and brake lines inspected
regularly and properly maintained? Yes () No ( )

9. Are lights inspected regularly and properly
maintained? Yes () No ( )

10. Are hazardous material placards properly
placed when required? (e.g., when handling
Ammonium Nitrate) Yes ( ) No ( )

11. Is a regular maintenance schedule
required to be followed? Yes ( ) No ( )

12. Is all power shut off before performing
any maintenance? Yes () No( )

13. Are precautions taken to prevent injury
when checking for leaks in high pressure
hydraulic fluid lines? Yes ( ) No ( )

14. Have operators and maintenance personnel
been trained? Yes () No ()


Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your establishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a walk-through survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Is sulfur stored in a cool, well-ventilated

place away from open flames? Yes () No ()
2. Is sulfur stored separately from chlorate,

nitrates and other oxidizing materials? Yes () No ( )
3. Are spills cleaned up at once? Yes () No ( )

4. Is the production and accumulation of fine
sulfur dust minimized? Yes () No ( )

5. Are employees provided with and required
to wear dust-tight eye goggles and

respirators? Yes () No ( )
6. Have employees been trained to fight

sulfur fires? Yes () No ( )
7. Are "No Smoking" signs posted? Yes () No ()
8. Is the wearing of contact lens prohibited? Yes ( ) No ()

44


Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your establishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a walk-through survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Are physicians and medical emergency
services telephone numbers posted for
convenient reference? Yes () No( )

2. Are employees supplied with all the
necessary protective clothing and required
to wear them when necessary? Yes () No ( )

3. Are employees familiar with and made aware
of recommended first aid for pesticide
poisoning or overexposure? Yes () No ( )

4, Is the telephone number of one or more
Poison Control Centers posted? (Nearby
large general hospital, pharmacies, and
emergency facilities should be able to
provide these telephone numbers. ) Yes () No ()

5. Has a disaster plan for emergency action
been written, posted, and drills held? Yes () No ( )

6. Are community physicians trainedin the
main procedures to treat all types of
pesticide related illness? Yes () No ( )

7. Are the manufacturer's handling and
storage recommendations followed? Yes () No ( )

8. Is information concerning the health

effects, other than acute poisoning,
of the pesticides available to employee? Yes () No ()

50


10.

1.

12.

13.

Ammonia (WH) Nurse Tanks, Pull-Type and Self-Propelled

OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910.111)

Are the nurse tanks and applicator vessels
identified as meeting ASME requirements for
NH3?

Are ammonia vessels properly placarded and
marked to meet Federal, State, and local
requirements?

Are pull-type ammonia vehicles equipped
with safety chains?

Are ammonia vehicles equipped with safety
water?

Are operators required to wear safety
gloves, safety glggles, and respirators,
where appropriate?

Are vehicle operators trained in
handling hazardous materials,
driving, etc.?

Are ammonia hoses and hose-end valves
inspected regularly?

Are ammonia vessels painted white or silver?

Are proper warning and first-aid decals
prominently displayed?

Is the customer who applies the ammonia
himself trained in the appropriate safety
procedures and precautions?

Are vapor relief valves covered at all
times (dust cap)?

Are relief valves replaced on a regular
basis or earlier if corroded or full of
dirt?

Do all nurse tanks which may use public
roads have the slow moving vehicle emblem
properly displayed?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()

()

()

()

()

()
()

()

()

No (

No (

No (

No (

No (

No (

No (
No (

No (

No (

No (

No (

No (


DISCLAIMER

Mention of company names or products does not constitute
endorsement by the National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health or The Fertilizer Institute.

DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 80-149

ii


PLANT EQUIPMENT

Powered machinery and equipment are found in every fertilizer plant.
It is used to unload, to load, to convey, and mix fertilizers.
Typical types of equipment include bucket elevators, conveyors, end
loaders, pumps, and mixers.

Work around fertilizer plants is quite varied and an employee may

use different pieces of equipment while performing his/her job. The
questions in this section are designed to identify potential hazards
resulting from use of unsafe plant equipment or unsafe work procedures,
and to evaluate the plant's program to protect the employees. The
questions cover basic physical inspections and evaluations that should
be regularly made of plant equipment.

Electrical

Electrical wiring and equipment can be sources of sparks and unwanted
heat and for that reason equipment used in fertilizer plants must be
carefully selected and installed to operate without being a fire
hazard. Employees can also be exposed to a variety of serious
electrical shocks unless proper precautions are taken.

Electrical installations and equipment must comply with the National
Electrical Code. Equipment selection, grounding, tagging and lock out
procedures are particularly important areas of concern in fertilizer
plants, retail and distribution centers

An effective electrical safety program includes:

-- Education and training of employees in proper switching,
use of equipment and tag/lock out procedures.
-- Regular inspection and maintenance of electrical equipment.
-- Adherence to various classifications for electrical wiring in
hazardous locations.
-- Appropriate fire extinguishers in electrical fires available.

Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions with
those workers at your establishment who know the most about the areas
covered; and while conducting a walk-through survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Are only qualified and authorized persons
allowed to work for electrical equipment? Yes () No ( )

2. Before working on electrical equipment, are

switches opened, and tagged, blocked, or
locked out? Yes ( ) No ( )

25


HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
General

Certain fertilizers, pesticides and other agriculturally related
chemicals are potentially hazardous. This means they have been
determined by various Federal and State regulatory agencies (i.e.,
OSHA, EPA, DOT, etc.) to be capable of posing an unreasonable health
hazard to people and/or property. As a fertilizer dealer, or
distributor, it is imperative that the physical and chemical
characteristics of the various hazardous material products handled

are known. How these products behave or react under certain conditions
and the precautions that must be taken in handling them should be
understood by all employees. Equally important is compliance with the
governmental regulations pertaining to hazardous materials.

There are different lists and definitions of hazardous materials.
For example, the Department of Transportation, the Environmental
Protection Agency and many State agencies have published their own
definitions and lists of materials considered hazardous, such as:
explosives, corrosives, flammable liquids, oxidizers, poisons, and
others.

To acquire necessary safety and health information, a dealer should
ask his supplier of fertilizer and other chemical products to

provide safety data and shipping requirements for every product
purchased, stored, and handled at the facility. These data should

be readily available at all times. From this safety information,

one can quickly determine if a hazardous material is being handled,
and if so, what the recommended safe handling and emergency procedures
are for that particular material.

Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations

The Department of Transportation has established regulations for
handling shipments of hazardous materials. Regulations set forth in
Title 49, Parts 100-199 cover preparation and transportation of
hazardous materials by rail, air, vessel, and public highway,
including detailed packaging specifications. Title 49 should be
reviewed. It is suggested that the dealer consult with his supplier
of fertilizer and chemicals for information needed concerning
storing, handling, and shipping of hazardous materials.

Department of Transportation (DOT) Reports
Dealers involved in commerce are responsible for reporting accidental

release of hazardous materials resulting from transportation related
accidents or incidents.

13


SELF-EVALUATION INSTRUMENT
RETAIL FERTILIZER DISTRIBUTION INDUSTRY

Loren L. Hatch
Frank W. Godbey
James D. Massie
Wilbur C. Copeland
Albert V. Malone
George A. Michie
Dale R. Morris
Jean C. Sliger

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service
Center for Disease Control
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Division of Technical Services
Cincinnati, Ohio 45226

August 1980

Far sale by the Superintendent of Documenta, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402



5. Are employees involved in acid and
solution car unloading operations provided
with protective goggles, rubber gloves
and are they required to wear them? Yes ( ) No ( )

6. Are approved car movers used and are
employees prohibited from using forklifts
or end loaders to move cars? Yes ( ) No ( )

7. Are proper tools used to open bottom
hopper doors and piping? Yes ( ) No ( )

8. Are respirators required during
unloading/ loading operations? Yes () No ( )

Anhydrous Ammonia

1. Are hoses, gaskets, Acme threads, etc.
inspected before connection? Yes () No ( )

2. Are all persons trained to handle hoses
by the hose-to-valve coupling and not by
the valve handwheel or lever? Yes ( ) No ()

3. Are all valves opened slowly to avoid
snapping the excess flow valve? Yes ( ) No ( )

4. Is pressure bled from the hose coup] ing
devices before disconnection? Yes ( ) No ( )

5. Are liquid hoses connected to liquid
valves and vapor hoses to vapor valves? Yes () No ( )

6. Is one or more trained person stationed
at the site continuously from the time
connections are made until disconnection? Yes () No ( )

7. Are bleeders closed after disconnection? Yes ( ) No ( )

Self-Propelled Vehicles

Depending upon the operation, employees may be involved in working with
various pieces of transportation equipment. Application equipment may
be loaded at the plant and/or field. Employees can be exposed to
several potentially hazardous situations; however, these hazards can be
minimized through proper safety precautions and proper training. This
section is intended to evaluate the safety procedures and operating
practices for protecting employees from these hazards.

37


Are the names, addresses, and phone numbers
of advisory physicians or alternate medical
facilities posted or readily available to
all supervisors and first-aiders?

Is an eye-wash fountain (with sufficient
water for 15 minutes of copious flow)
available at all sites where hazardous
substances may be splashed in the eye?

Are all supervisors and workers trained
to recognize the early symptoms of
overexposure to pesticides and hazardous
substances that may be present?

Are emergency people and medical personnel
in the community familiar with the
pesticides and other hazardous materials
which are used?

21

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

()

()

()

()

No

No

No

No

()

()

()


Since most forklift and front-end loader accidents are due to
either unsafe driving and work practices or poor equipment
maintenance, an effective vehicle safety program should include the
following areas of concern:

-- Systematic inspection and formalized preventive maintenance
of each vehicle.

-- Formalized training and selection of operators and maintenance
personnel.

-- Thorough investigation of each vehicle accident.

-- Appropriate operator safety shielding.

Operators should be aware of the overall height and width of the
vehicle when loaded, as well as unloaded. They should also be aware
of the rated capacity of the vehicle. Operators should be constantly
alert to avoid striking overhead projections (doorways, entrances,
electrical wires, etc.). They should know the whereabouts of all
persons working in the area.

Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Are only trained and authorized persons
permitted to operate front-end loaders and
forklifts? Yes () No ()

2. Is a complete safety check made of the
vehicle at the beginning of each shift? Yes () No ( )

3. When loading or unloading railway cars,
are the wheels clinched or brake set, and
are dock boards secured in place? Yes () No ( )

4. Are vehicles fitted with a reverse signal
alarm and lights or is an observer present
to signal the operator when it is safe to
back? Yes () No ( )

5. Have operators been instructed to never
undercut a pile of fertilizer? Yes () No ( )

6. Are operators prohibited from moving rail
cars with end loaders or forklifts? Yes () No ( )

30


JOB PLANNING-JOB BRIEF ING

Safety and health planning meetings with concerned personnel should
be conducted before beginning a major new job. These meetings
should include representative(s) from all affected areas, including
any contract personnel.

On-site job briefing is equally as important to safety as job
planning. Each employee should understand the general purpose of
the job and his particular work assignment as well as that of those
fellow workers.

Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the question
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help. .

1. Is each immediate supervisor required to
conduct briefing sessions before beginning
all jobs for all affected members under his
superv is ion? Yes ( ) No()

2. Are crew members encouraged to ask questions
and make comments during these meetings? Yes () No ( )

3. Are records kept of job planning,
briefing, and training sessions? Yes () No ( )

4. Are job assignments made on the basis of
compatability with the person's known
capabilities? Yes () No()

5. Are employees informed of work environments

that may aggravate previous health
conditions? Yes () No ( )

16




APPENDIX C
OSHA REGIONAL OFFICES

NOTE: For an office close to you, check your telephone directory under
United States Government or dial 800-555-1212 and ask for the
toll-free number of the OSHA office nearest you.

Region I

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

JFK Building, Room 1804

Boston, Massachusettsa 02203........... Telephone: 617/223-6712/3

Region II

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

1515 Broadway (1 Astor Plaza), Room 3445

New York, New York 10036.......0eeeeees Telephone: 212/971-5941/2

Region III

U.S Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

15220 Gateway Center

3535 Market Street

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104....... Telephone: 215/596-1201

Region IV

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

1375 Peachtree Street, N.E., Suite 587

Pea Georgia 30309.........eee eee Telephone: 404/526-3573/4 or
2281

Region V

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

230 S. Dearborn, 32nd Floor

Chicago, Illinois 60604.............04 Telephone: 312/353-4716/7

Region VI

U.S. Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

555 Griffin Square Building, Room 602

Dallas, Texas 75202.........eeeeeeeee Telephone: 214/749-2477/8/9 or 2567

52


Read all of the questions in this section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. When a truck is spotted at the load
out station, are the brakes set to
prevent truck from rolling? Yes () No ( )

2. Are trucks valves and moving parts
inspected before use? Yes () No ( )

3. Is maximum pulling speed and/or
driving speed required to be observed? Yes () No ( )

End Loader, Forklift, and Hand Truck Operation

Almost every plant has a front end loader and/or a forklift
and/or a hand truck. They are used to lift, move and stack all
kinds of materials. This mobile equipment is not difficult to
operate. It can reduce or eliminate manual handling, thus
minimizing the chances of personal injury.

All forklift and front-end loader operators should be trained in
operating techniques and machine characteristics prior to being
permitted to operate the vehicle.

Most mobile equipment accidents are due to either unsafe driving
practices or poor equipment maintenance. An effective vehicle
safety program should include the following:

-- Systematic inspection and formalized preventive maintenance
of each vehicle.

-- Formalized training and selection of operators and maintenance
personnel.

-- Thorough investigation of each vehicle accident.

Operators should be aware of the overall height and width of the
vehicle when loaded as well as unloaded. They should also be aware
of the rated capacity of the vehicle. Operators should be constantly
alert to avoid striking overhead projections (doorways, entrances,
electrical wires, came Operators should be aware of the whereabouts
of all persons working the area.

38


RECORDKEEP ING

Recordkeeping requirements under the Department of Labor and
OSHA Act provide the statistical basis from which rates of
occupational injury and illness are determined. These records
provide employers with a measure for evaluating the high-risk
areas of their business to which special attention should be
directed. Employers must report to OSHA within 48 hours (or a
State agency in States which have operational safety and health
plans) any incident or accident which results in a fatality or
hospitalization of five or more employees.

Federal regulations require employers with 11 or more employees at
any time during the preceding calendar year to complete OSHA Form 200
(or an equivalent), and kept for five years. Information to be
recorded includes: every occupational death; every occupational
non-fatal illness; and those involving loss of consiousness,
restriction of work or motion, job transfer and medical treatment,
other than first-aid, including days away from work or on restricted
work. Definitions are provided on the form itself.

OSHA recordkeeping forms must be maintained for five years beyond the
current calendar year.

Read all of the questions in the section; discuss the questions
with those workers at your establishment who know the most about
the areas covered; and while conducting a survey, complete this
section with their help.

1. Is an employee poster (OSHA or equivalent
State poster) prominently displayed in
employee areas? Yes () No ( )

2. Have occupational injuries and illnesses
(except minor injuries requiring only
first aid) been recorded on OSHA Form #200? Yes () No ( )

3. Has a summary of all occupational injuries

and illnesses been compiled at the

conclusion of each calendar year, and been

recorded on OSHA Form #200? Yes () No ( )
4. Have all training sessions been recorded? Yes () No ( )

5. Are records of attendance and topics
discussed at safety meetings maintained? Yes ( ) No ( )

40


15.

16.

7.

Do all spreaders which may use public
roads have the slow moving vehicle
emblem properly displayed?

Are spinner fans, spinner mounting
frames spinner fan nuts and screws
periodically inspected?

Are spreaders, when fully loaded with
material, at or below the Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR) and/or the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)?

Yes ( ) No ( )

Yes ( ) No ( )

Yes ( ) No ( )