Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard:

OSH ACT of 1970 Section (5)(a)(1): 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 the recognized hazard of free falling more than six feet. Express Energy Services, at the worksite of Patterson-UTI Rig #235, Gonzales County, TX. On or about 4 April 2012, and at times prior thereto, while casing operations were commencing, an employee working from a height of approximately 50 feet above the drilling platform was exposed to a free fall hazard in the following instance: a) The lanyard and harness worn by the employee allowed for a total free fall distance of approximately 8 feet; 6 feet for the lanyard and 2 feet for the dorsal D-ring. Also, the lanyard was not utilized properly in that the right-side, large locking hook was connected directly to the front, right side of the harness webbing of the DBI-Sala Derrick Harness being worn. Pursuant to 29 C.F.R. 1903.19, within ten (10) calendar days of the date of this citation, the employer must submit documentation showing that it is in compliance with the standard, including describing the steps that it is taking to ensure that all employees are trained, supervised, and monitored in the selection and use of all personal protective equipment that they are required to utilize at the work site.