Neb. workers exposed to ammonia at food storage facility
Latest violations echo 2010 citations against company
Nebraska Cold Storage Inc. has been cited for 14 safety violations and fined $132,800 by OSHA for exposing workers to anhydrous ammonia at its Hastings facility. The company has been placed in OSHA's Severe Violator Enforcement Program.
"Ammonia is considered a high health hazard because it can be corrosive to the skin, eyes and lungs. It is flammable at varying concentrations," said Bonita Winingham, OSHA's area director in Omaha. "Businesses that handle hazardous materials must take precautions to protect workers from exposure to chemicals, explosions and fire hazards."