U.S. Department of Labor Cites Global Spice Importer after Worker Suffers Partial Finger Amputation at Jackson, Alabama Facility
OSHA previously cited iSpice LLC in April for exposing workers to safety hazards.
- By Shereen Hashem
- Dec 17, 2021
On August 8, 2021, a 61-year-old maintenance employee of iSpice LLC in Jackson had part of his finger amputated while amputated while wrapping material to a machine that started and trapped his hand. According to an article, his employer failed to ensure proper guarding was installed. The incident occurred less than six months after OSHA cited the global spice importer in a separate investigation for exposing workers to amputation and struck-by hazards.
OSHA cited iSpice for “not ensuring that machine guards were in place or adequate while employees worked in close proximity to rotating components on machines.” The company also exposed workers to fall hazards by allowing them to work on an open-sided mezzanine 12 feet above the next level without a complete guardrail system, allowed employees to work near uncovered electrical boxes and light switches and a machine with exposed live parts. The company faces $146,751 in penalties.
“Once again, this employer disregarded safety measures and their neglect resulted in a serious injury that should never have happened,” said OSHA Area Director Jose Gonzalez in Mobile, Alabama. “Employers have a responsibility to comply with OSHA standards that are in place to keep workers safe on the job.”
OSHA cited iSpice LLC in April and assessed $121,511 in penalties.
The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director or contest the findings before the independent OSHRC.
About the Author
Shereen Hashem is the Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety magazine.