On Dec. 2, 2016, OSHA issued citations to a poultry processing facility for five serious safety violations, including one issued as a violation of the OSH Act’s general duty clause. Two hazard alert letters were issued on Dec. 2, 2016. OSHA’s inspection began on June 3, 2016, after the employer reported that a worker suffered a finger amputation while operating a packaging machine. Inspectors found serious violations associated with electrical and process safety management hazards, and deficiencies with the procedures meant to prevent accidental machine start-up or movement, known as lockout/tagout, which contributed to the amputation. They also found that workers were exposed to musculoskeletal stressors as they performed tasks requiring repetitive, forceful motion for extended periods of time, and often in awkward positions. The agency issued one hazard alert letter for medical management practices in place at the facility that prevent appropriate standards of care, increase the likelihood of workers developing serious musculoskeletal disorders, restrict referrals to physicians, and discourage employees from reporting symptoms and injuries.
The other hazard alert letter warned about the company’s storage of incompatible chemicals.