Respiratory hazards, major fines caused by mercury

On Dec. 1, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited a Connecticut-based construction contractor for exposing workers to respiratory hazards and high levels of mercury. OSHA conducted an investigation after receiving complaints from employees and found that workers were being exposed to these hazards while dismantling a mercury boiler at the Portsmouth work site.

Mercury can be inhaled as a vapor and has severe effects on the central nervous system. OSHA found that that the employer failed to evaluate the respirator program on its ability to protect workers against exposures, and also did not attempt to reduce exposure below the permissible exposure limit.

“These hazards were certainly preventable,” said OSHA’s New Hampshire area director Rosemarie O. Cole. “High mercury exposure can result in permanent nervous system and kidney damage. It is critically important that employers remain vigilant and ensure that effective safeguards are in place to prevent and minimize workers’ exposures.”

(Related Article: Mercury Poisoning Leads to OSHA Investigations and Fines)

Eight preventable OSHA violations

The company faces a total of $329,548 in fines for two willful, and six serious violations, involving: Mercury, respirators, protective clothing, and cleanliness.

The company released a statement saying that they were addressing these issues by instituting a medical surveillance program:

“At this time, [we are] confident that the root cause has been identified and all workers are protected from exposures above permissible exposure limits. Independent medical experts have advised that employees should not now have or develop any negative health issues. All of our employees are involved in a medical monitoring surveillance program — the data initially indicated some cases of low exposure but at this time all employees are below any actionable occupational levels.”

(Related Article: Fined By OSHA? Here’s What You Need to do Next)

Don’t Wait, Get Started With Your Medical Surveillance Testing Program

Medical Surveillance is an effective way to prevent hazard exposure and related health issues, and in most cases, it’s required by OSHA. Worksite Medical is a medical surveillance company with a fleet of mobile units that can come directly to your worksite. Our licensed professionals can test employees on-site, so you can avoid the hassle of off-site testing. Services we offer include respirator fit testing and heavy metal screening. Learn more by visiting us online or giving us a call at 1-844-622-8633 to schedule your appointment today.