More Fines Levied in Hotel Blast

Two more subcontractors face fines for May explosion that injured 14 workers

Two more subcontractors will pay fines for violations stemming from an explosion at the Bayfront Hilton in May.
 
The California Occupational Safety and Health Administration found that University Mechanical and Engineering Contractors and Farwest Insulation Contracting failed to have appropriate illness and injury plans in place. Both companies were ordered to pay $375 each.
 
Earlier this month,  Sherwood Mechanical, Inc. -- plumbing and heating contractor -- was issued the fine by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health.  The report lists four fines -- all serious -- for a grand total of $67,500 in penalties.
 
Fourteen construction workers were hurt, including three who suffered second and third-degree burns.  The blast was sparked by a gas leak that led to an accumulation of natural gas in a fifth floor utility room that was ignited by an unknown source, according to San Diego Fire-Rescue Department spokesman Maurice Luque.   
 
Six additional subcontractors were penalized for less serious construction violations, the paper reported.  The penalties are due in 15 days and the company has the right to appeal.
 
The hotel is due to open on Dec. 3.
 
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