Kansas Beef Processor Hit with $176,400 Fine for Slew of Hazards
OSHA's inspection of the beef processing and packaging company was initiated in November 2010 under the agency's Site-Specific Targeting Program, through which OSHA focuses on employers with higher-than-average occupational injury and illness rates.
OSHA has cited Cargill Meat Solutions of Dodge City, Kan., with two repeat and 23 serious violations for exposing workers to numerous occupational hazards. Proposed fines total $176,400 following a combined safety and health inspection at the facility.
OSHA's inspection of the beef processing and packaging company was initiated in November 2010 under the agency's Site-Specific Targeting Program, through which OSHA focuses on employers with higher-than-average occupational injury and illness rates.
"Many hazards at this facility existed for a long period of time, and there is just no excuse for exposing workers to them," said Charles Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City, Mo. "It is imperative that employers take the necessary steps to eliminate hazards and provide a safe working environment for all of their employees."
The two repeat violations address a lack of machinery anchorage and improperly used flexible cords. Similar citations were issued in February 2007 and again in October 2009.
The 23 serious violations address hazards associated with process safety management, fall protection, access and egress, lockout/tagout of energy sources, material storage, personal protective equipment, machine guarding, electrical deficiencies, compressed gas cylinders, and hazard communication.