November 23, 2018

U.S. Department of Labor Cites Alabama Food Processor
For Amputation and Other Hazards

BRUNDIDGE, AL – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Southern Classic Food Group LLC for amputation and other hazards after two employees were hospitalized in separate incidents. The Brundidge, Alabama, food processor faces $164,997 in penalties.

On August 2, 2018, an employee suffered burns while using hot water under pressure. Six days later, another employee suffered an amputation to the tip of the finger. OSHA cited the company for exposing employees to amputation hazards; failing to implement lockout/tagout procedures to control hazardous energy and train employees on these procedures; failing to ensure employees isolated energy sources before conducting line-breaking work; not providing personal protective equipment; and failing to implement a bloodborne pathogen program.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to help ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education, and assistance. For more information, visit https://www.osha.gov.

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Media Contacts:

Michael D’Aquino, 678-237-0630, daquino.michael@dol.gov
Eric Lucero, 678-237-0630, lucero.eric.r@dol.gov

Release Number: 18-1644-ATL (327)

U.S. Department of Labor news materials are accessible at http://www.dol.gov. The department’s Reasonable Accommodation Resource Center converts departmental information and documents into alternative formats, which include Braille and large print. For alternative format requests, please contact the department at (202) 693-7828 (voice) or (800) 877-8339 (federal relay).