OSHA: Deficient Medical Management to Blame for Musculoskeletal Injuries
A Delaware poultry processing plant has been warned by OSHA.
Allen Harim Foods, a poultry processing plant in Harbeson, Del., has been issued a hazard alert letter by OSHA.
A number of deficiencies were identified in the facility's medical management program, including deficient staffing, inadequate supervision, lack of experience, and providers working outside their scope of practice. Inspectors also found that the employer did not refer injured workers to qualified health care providers for evaluation and treatment when appropriate and that workers were discouraged from reporting symptoms and injuries, according to OSHA's release.
"The medical management practices at this facility create an environment of fear and distrust," said Erin G. Patterson, OSHA's area director in Wilmington. "The use of the first aid station to prevent injuries from being reported as required by law undermines the purpose of on-site treatment and leaves employees at risk of further injury. Discouraging workers from reporting injuries is unacceptable."