An OSHA investigation has determined that AJLS Enterprises Inc., which operates as Schoep’s Ice Cream, lacked necessary process safety management procedures to control the release of hazardous chemicals. The investigation began after a report alleged that workers were being exposed to anhydrous ammonia, a chemical used in the refrigeration process, at the ice cream plant. Exposure to the chemical can lead to respiratory issues, as well as burns to the skin and eyes. OSHA investigators found that the company failed to “document that equipment was being operated consistent with best engineering processes, update processes following audits and respond to changes in the process.”
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AJLS Enterprises faces 12 serious citations, including a lack of lockout/tagout processes and machine guarding, failing to provide a written hazard communication plan, and not properly training workers on safety practices, including LOTO. The company faces $145,097 in penalties.
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Chad Greenwood said, “Employers must continually evaluate their engineering processes and train workers on how to safely operate equipment. Every employer should embrace safety and health as a core value in their establishment.”
Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector.