OSHA fines ModWash $446K for LOTO, hearing protection violations

OSHA has cited a New Jersey car wash service for willfully exposing workers to safety hazards related to hazardous energy and excessive noise levels, proposing $446,864 in penalties.

The agency said that it found that ModWash LLC, an express car wash service operating multiple locations nationwide, including five in Sicklerville, N.J., willfully exposed workers to hazardous energy by failing to lock out equipment prior to conducting maintenance activities and not using energy control procedures.

OSHA levies fine against car wash entity

OSHA also cited ModWash for two repeat violations for failing to have clear lockout procedures and specific instructions for controlling all energy sources, and not training employees on equipment lockout/tagout processes.

The agency added that the employer was cited for five serious violations for:

• Failing to develop and implement a noise monitoring program
• Failing to establish a baseline audiogram for employees within six months of exposure
• Failing to train employees exposed to noise above 85 decibels
• Not providing lockout/tagout devices
• And not attaching such devices to machines before servicing them

The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.