An OSHA investigation has determined that Mosaic Fertilizer LLC could have prevented the death of a 29-year-old process operator at its Mulberry, Florida, facility. The accident occurred in July 2024. According to the agency, the fertilizer manufacturer did not ensure the rotating portion of the east and west industrial ribbon blenders had the proper guarding in place or secured. The employee was attempting to collect a sample when he fell into the blender and suffered fatal injuries. Mosaic Fertilizer LLC was cited for two serious violations and will have to pay $30,649 in penalties.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Danelle Jindra said, “This unfortunate incident could have been prevented had Mosaic Fertilizer LLC ensured all machines were secured and guarded. In this case, the employer failed to protect workers as the law requires. No employee should lose their life because an employer neglects basic safety measures.”
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.
