Industry News

OSHA investigation finds food warehouse had a recordable injury rate 4 times higher than the industry average

Feb. 5, 2024

OSHA proposed a penalty of $41,483.

An OSHA investigation has determined that workers at The Martin-Brower Co. LLC’s Ohio facility suffered severe injuries at nearly four times the average rate for their industry. The food services warehouse made employees perform manual material handling lifting tasks. According to OSHA, these tasks involved repeated hazardous forceful exertions and awkward postures, putting the workers at risk for low back injuries. These required activities caused workers to suffer from ergonomic musculoskeletal disorders at a high rate.

The company was cited for three serious violations and was issued four hazard alert letters. In addition, The Martin-Brower Co. was cited for repeatedly exposing workers to known ergonomic, fire, and struck by hazards. OSHA proposed a penalty of $41,483.

In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Ken Montgomery said, “OSHA found Martin-Brower Co. workers at high risk for musculoskeletal disorders because of the high frequency, long duration of hours worked, awkward postures, and weight of materials being lifted. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are among the most frequently reported causes of lost or restricted work time.”

About the Author

Alexis Gajewski | Senior Content Strategist

Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector.