Candy maker accidentally releases 8,000 pounds of ammonia
Process safety management program failed
OSHA has cited New England Confectionery Company Inc., also known as Necco, for 19 alleged serious violations of workplace health and safety standards at its Revere production plant. The manufacturer of Necco Wafers, Clark Bars and other candies faces proposed penalties of $133,000 in connection with the release of 8,000 pounds of ammonia from the plant's refrigeration system on Oct. 5, 2012.
Inspections by OSHA's Andover Area Office identified several shortfalls in the plant's process safety management program under which the plant must proactively analyze, address and minimize potentially catastrophic hazards associated with the use of large amounts of ammonia in its refrigeration system. Specifically, Necco failed to develop safe operating procedures for the refrigeration system; did not adequately inspect and have adequate preventive maintenance procedures for machinery, piping and storage vessels used in the refrigeration system; and did not update procedures and inform workers of changes to the refrigeration process, its equipment and management.