US Department of Labor cites Florida petroleum tank services contractor after worker succumbs to injuries from exposure to toxic chemicals

March 3, 2026

LAKE WORTH, FL – The U.S. Department of Labor has cited a Land O’ Lakes-based petroleum tank services contractor for exposing workers to chemical and respiratory hazards after an employee was fatally exposed to benzene and toluene when they entered a fuel storage tank at a Lake Worth worksite in July 2025.

Investigators with the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited PCE Petroleum Contractors Enterprises Inc. with 12 serious violations for failing to develop and implement a written permit-required space entry program, ensure those authorized to enter the space knew the hazards, and signs or symptoms of exposure.

The agency also cited the employer for allowing employees to enter a confined space without an atmospheric evaluation or a required permit, not having a written respiratory program for workers required to wear full-face respirators, and not implementing a hazard communication program when exposed to chemicals. 

OSHA proposed $60,242 in penalties.

PCE Petroleum Contractors Enterprises Inc. has contested the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. Penalties and citations may be adjusted throughout the course of the case process.