OSHA Cites Companies After Fatal Pipeline Fire
OSHA investigators concluded flammable vapors or gases from a vacuum truck leaked, igniting the pipeline
The U.S. Department of Labor announced May 9 that OSHA has cited DCP Midstream LP and Complete Energy Services Inc. after two employees suffered fatal burns from a fire at a gas pipeline in Weld County, Colo.
Two employees of Complete Energy and one employee of DCP Midstream were clearing a blockage in a gas pipeline operated by DCP Midstream when the fire occurred. OSHA investigators concluded flammable vapors or gases from a vacuum truck leaked, igniting the pipeline, and the agency cited both companies for failing to control potential ignition sources in a work area; isolate hazardous energy sources using lockout procedures; and train employees on detecting flammable hydrocarbons in the workplace.
The two companies have been issued $79,004 in proposed penalties.
"The employer could have prevented this tragedy by taking appropriate precautions to prevent contact between flammable materials and potential ignition sources," said OSHA Denver Area Office Director Herb Gibson.