Dumpling manufacturer fined $190K for continuing to expose workers to hazards
July 25, 2023
During a follow-up inspection, OSHA investigators noted that there were still no safety guards on a dumpling machine's rotating shafts.
Chinese Spaghetti Factory Inc., a food manufacturer in Boston, Massachusetts, has failed to implement safety measures after an OSHA inspection last year. During a follow-up inspection, OSHA investigators noted that there were still no safety guards on a dumpling machine's rotating shafts. This hazard had caused one employee to suffer serious injuries, prompting the initial inspection. In addition, OSHA officials cited the company for two repeat violations for exposing employees to electrical shock hazards, one serious violation for failing to implement procedures to prevent the unintended activation of various machines, and three serious violations for an incomplete hearing conservation program. The food manufacturer faces $190,541 in fines.
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director James Mulligan said, "The sizable penalties in this case reflect the gravity of this situation and the dangers faced by people employed at the Chinese Spaghetti Factory's facility. "The employer's willingness to ignore federal regulations and failure to correct workplace hazards, including one that seriously injured a worker, is unacceptable. Safety and health is a fundamental right for every worker and must be a company-wide core value."
Protecting electrical controls and equipment within food and beverage plants presents unique challenges due to the sanitation requirements of the hygienic environment.
