Poultry processor fined $393K for 14 health and safety violations

An OSHA investigation has determined that Case Farms Processing Inc. exposed workers to multiple hazards by failing to meet mandated safety regulations. The chicken processing plant was found to be lacking machine guarding, and the facility had trip-and-fall hazards. The company has a long history of violations and is part of OSHA’s Severe Violator Enforcement Program. Case Farms Processing was cited for three repeat, seven serious and four other-than-serious violations. These violations include failing to implement lockout/tagout processes and not properly training employees. The company faces $393,449 in penalties.

In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Larry Johnson said, “Case Farms Processing again violated federal safety regulations to protect workers on the job. Returning to a facility to find similar violations identified in previous inspections, makes OSHA gravely concerned about worker safety at this facility. Case Farms exposes its Winesburg workforce – mostly workers with limited English proficiency – to life altering injuries. The company must come into compliance immediately with the law.”