'Outrageously Dangerous' Ohio Chicken Processor Cited

Case Farms Processing Inc. faces $861,500 in penalties and has been added to OSHA’s Severe Violator Enforcement Program.

  • Aug 14, 2015

Describing the company as a leading supplier of chicken to national fast food and supermarket brands, OSHA announced it had cited Case Farms Processing Inc. on Aug. 13 for two willful, 20 repeat, 30 serious, and three other-than-serious safety and health violations, along with assessing $861,500 in penalties and adding the company to its Severe Violator Enforcement Program, after an inspection of Case Farms Processing's Winesburg, Ohio, facility that was triggered by a referral.

OSHA's announcement said the company was aware of amputation, electrocution, and fall hazards at the facility but continued to expose workers to serious and potentially fatal injuries. The company is based in Troutman, N.C., and operates plants, hatcheries, and feed mills in both Ohio and North Carolina.

"Case Farms is an outrageously dangerous place to work. In the past 25 years, Case Farms has been cited for more than 350 safety and health violations," said Assistant Secretary Dr. David Michaels. "Despite committing to OSHA that it would eliminate serious hazards, Case Farms continues to endanger the safety and health of its workers. This simply must stop."

The February 2015 inspection found amputation hazards; fall hazards due to non-functioning fall arrest systems, unprotected platforms, and wet work surfaces; lack of personal protective equipment; violations of electrical safety standards; improperly stored oxygen cylinders; and a lack of emergency eyewash stations.

"Case Farms has an extensive history of health and safety violations. Since 1988, OSHA and the Occupational Safety and Health Division of North Carolina's Department of Labor have inspected the company 66 times at its facilities in North Carolina and Ohio, with citations issued in 42 of those inspections. A majority of the inspections were initiated after worker injuries, complaints, or referrals," OSHA reported.

Product Showcase

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without being recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Its durability enables the detector to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, hence earning it an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as the GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. Read More

  • AirChek Connect Sampling Pump

    Stay connected to your sampling with the SKC AirChek® Connect Sampling Pump! With its Bluetooth connection to PC and mobile devices, you can monitor AirChek Connect pump operation without disrupting workflow. SKC designed AirChek Connect specifically for all OEHS professionals to ensure accurate, reliable flows from 5 to 5000 ml/min and extreme ease of use. AirChek Connect offers easy touch screen operation and flexibility. It is quality built to serve you and the workers you protect. Ask about special pricing and a demo at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. Read More

  • EMSL Analytical, Inc. - Air Sampling Supplies & Testing Labs

    EMSL Analytical, Inc. operates laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for Asbestos, Mold, Silica, Lead & Metals, Bacteria, Legionella, USP , Combustion By-Products, VOC’s, Radon, PCB’s, Formaldehyde, METH/Fentanyl, Identification of Dust & Unknowns. Sampling Pumps, Cassettes, Media & Supplies available. Reach us at 1-800.220.3675 Read More

Featured

Most   Popular

Artificial Intelligence