OSHA Inspection: FRALINGERS FARM

Issued

Dec 17, 1999

Abate by

Feb 1, 2000

Penalty

Initial $2,500 · Current $1,500 Reduced

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970:  The
employer did not
furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from
recognized hazards that
were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to
employees in that employees
were exposed to heat stress:
a). Fralingers Farm, Bridgeton NJ - Employees who were exposed to hot and
humid
conditions while harvesting peaches suffered from heat stress, and one
employee died
from hyperthermia (exertional heat stroke). On or about July 6, 1999.
Effects of Overexposure to High Temperature and Humid Conditions:
confusion, nausea, cramps, irrational behavior, vertigo, fainting,
convulsions and death.
Note: On July 6, 1999, between 5:54 a.m. and 4:54 p.m., the National
Weather Service
(Millville, NJ Airport) recorded temperature levels ranging from 79 to 95
degrees F, and relative
humidity levels ranging from 49 to 88
Among other methods, some feasible and acceptable abatement methods to
correct this hazard
are:
1. Implement a plan to deal with potential heat stress which can include
the following:
A: Monitor predicted weather conditions.
B. Administrative Controls
1. Ensure plenty of cool drinking water.
2. Provide for and require periodic breaks in a shaded area.
C. Training for Workers and Supervisors
1. Train these people in the control of heat stress and the recognition,
prevention
and treatment of heat illnesses.
2. Conduct safety meetings during heat spells.
NOTE:ABATEMENT DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED FOR THIS ITEM.
See page 2,"Notification of Corrective Action" for instructions.

Issued

Dec 17, 1999

Abate by

Dec 17, 1999

Penalty

Initial $2,500 · Current $1,500 Reduced