- February 27, 2016
In the U.S., some of the most hazardous work environments include food processing, packaging and manufacturing facilities. Not only do workers run the risk of injury on heavy machinery and other equipment, but there are also over a thousand potentially hazardous substances that may lead to a variety of occupational diseases. Because they are inherently hazardous, it is especially important that these types of facilities follow safety regulations and guidelines set forth by legislation and governmental agents like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Unfortunately, there are many occasions where regulations are broken as was the case with the recent discovery of OSHA violations at an Atlanta food manufacturing facility. If you are an employee in Atlanta that’s been injured due to safety violations at your place of employment, you may wish to speak to a workers’ compensation attorney.
OSHA Cites Atlanta Food Manufacturing Facility for Violations
It is not the first incident of OSHA violations the Atlanta food manufacturing facility, managed by Schwan’s Global Supply Inc., is guilty of. Inspectors returned to find recurring hazards that had previously been cited within the facility. Some of the safety violations included:- Failure to provide workers with safety procedures for machinery maintenance and servicing;
- Failing to ensure machinery was properly guarded;
- Failing to implement safety procedures for ammonia refrigeration systems;
- Lack of training for workers and technicians as first respondents in case of emergencies; and
- Not developing emergency shutdown procedures for the refrigeration units.
Common Injuries for Food Manufacturing Employees
Regardless of whether or not a facility is breaking safety regulations, employees in the food manufacturing industry are at risk of injury. While most injuries heal over time, every year there are many accidents, some of which are fatal incidents. Amongst food manufacturing employees, musculoskeletal disorders are the most common. This includes injuries such as:- Sprains and strains;
- Soreness and pain, particularly in the lower back region;
- Carpal tunnel syndrome due to repetitive motions; and
- Tears in ligaments and tendons from overexertion or repeated strain.
