Beef Processing Plant Slapped with Fines for Repeat, Serious Violations
Serious violations include failing to ensure the safe and proper use of step ladders, to keep floor surfaces free of water to prevent slipping or sliding, and to provide an adequate and timely emergency response plan for night shift workers.
OSHA has issued four serious and one repeat citation to Sam Kane Beef Processor Inc. following an inspection at the company's facility in Corpus Christi, Texas, where multiple safety hazards were found. Proposed penalties total $61,000.
"This company exposed its employees to preventable workplace safety hazards," said Michael Rivera, OSHA's area director in Corpus Christi. "OSHA standards must be followed in order to avoid injuries and fatalities."
OSHA's Corpus Christi Area Office initiated a safety and health inspection on Dec. 2, 2010, at the company's facility. Sam Kane Beef Processor, which employs about 800 workers in Corpus Christi, slaughters cattle and processes beef for sale.
Serious violations include failing to ensure the safe and proper use of step ladders, to keep floor surfaces free of water to prevent slipping or sliding, and to provide an adequate and timely emergency response plan for night shift workers.
A repeat citation was issued for failing to provide guardrails for work areas more than 4 feet above the ground. In March 2010, the company was cited for a similar violation with penalties of $2,250.