An OSHA investigation has determined that Viscofan USA Inc. could have prevented the severe injuries of two workers within the same week. According to OSHA, Viscofan, which is a U.S. subsidiary of a meat casing manufacturer, failed to follow federally required procedures for machine safety. The first incident occurred when a maintenance worker’s arm got caught in a roller machine, causing broken bones and lacerations. The second incident occurred when a worker was cleaning a pump and suffered chemical burns. The company was ultimately cited for one repeat violation, seven serious violations, and one other-than-serious violation. These violations include failing to implement adequate procedures for energy control, not properly training employees on machine safety and handling hazardous chemicals, and failing to review energy control procedures annually. Viscofan faces $197,054 in penalties.
What people are saying
In a recent quote, OSHA Area Director Edward Marshall said, “Viscofan USA has a long history of violations and worker injuries at its Danville facility, with two more workers needlessly suffering severe injuries because the company again failed to implement an effective safety and health program and develop specific energy control procedures to protect workers doing maintenance. Employers are responsible for training their workers and taking all necessary precautions to protect them from known hazards.”
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