OSHA cites Wisconsin Processing Plant for Multiple Violations After Worker Suffers Crushing Injuries

June 26, 2023

Federal safety inspectors responded to a Wisconsin employer’s report of an amputation found workers at a Green Bay, Wisconsin beef processing plant exposed to multiple hazards, including inadequate guards to protect employees from machines in operation.

Inspectors with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigating a December 2022 injury at JBS Green Bay Inc. found the worker suffered crushing injuries to his right index and middle fingers while removing a shackle from a cow moving down a trolley line. Agency officials also found that JBS failed to ensure that there was adequate guarding in place on the trolley line to protect workers from pinch points.

OSHA cited JBS Green Bay Inc. for four repeat, four serious and two other-than-serious violations. Other infractions were related to lockout/tagout, fall and electrical hazards and hazard communication. The agency proposed $227,786 in penalties.

“Unfortunately, injuries to workers in the meat processing industry are common but they can be prevented when required safety procedures are followed,” explained OSHA Area Director Robert Bonack in Appleton, Wisconsin. “JBS Foods is well aware of these typical industry hazards and of their legal obligation to provide employees with a safe and healthful workplace.”

Headquartered in Greeley, Colorado, JBS Foods is a leading producer of beef, poultry and pork production, with operations in the U.S., Australia and Canada. Its products are sold under dozens of brand names including Swift, Primo and Pilgrims in the U.S. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of JBS S.A. in Brazil, the world’s largest processor of fresh beef and pork, with more than $50 billion in annual sales.

Source: OSHA

Topics Workers' Compensation Wisconsin

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