Inspection Detail

Inspection: 1475138.015 - Smith'S Food And Drug

Inspection Information - Office: State Of New Mexico Environment Department Occupational Health & Safety Bureau

Investigation Summary

On May 10, 2020, an employee was using a Ryobi gas-powered pressure washer (model RY803001) inside the meat cold-storage room to clean the room, with one access door open and an oscillating fan. The employee was operating a gas-powered pressure washer to clean a cold-storage room that was 525 square feet. The operation lasted approximately 120 minutes. One door of the room was propped open, and an oscillating fan was placed at the other end. The employee moved the pressure washer as he walked the perimeter of the room and was consistently within a 5-foot radius of the pressure washer. After he was done, the employee returned the pressure washer and fan to the office and clocked out. He then proceeded to shop in the bakery department. At about 4:00 p.m., 30 minutes after he had used the pressure washer, he got very sick to his stomach and went to use the bathroom. He passed out just before reaching the bathroom. The paramedics were called, and he was transported to Presbyterian RMC ER, where he was hospitalized. The employee suffered overexposure to carbon monoxide and lost consciousness.

Keywords: Carbon Monoxide, Cleaning, Fan, Lost consciousness, Overcome by gas, Overexposure, Pressure Wash, Storage Room