Dairy Firm Fined Over Processing Breaches
US - Hiland Dairy Foods Co, a US dairy food processor is facing a fine of almost $125,000 over a list of alleged processing violations that could lead to the release of dangerous chemicals.
30 September 2009
2 minute read
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed $124,500 in penalties after finding 24 alleged serious violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the majority of which relate to deficiencies with the company's process safety management programme (PSM), an OSHA requirement for preventing the catastrophic release of hazardous chemicals.
"There is no excuse for Hiland Dairy's inattention to such a critical programme aimed at preventing the catastrophic release of hazardous chemicals," said Charles Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City, Mo. "The company needs to address these issues quickly and sufficiently to ensure the safety and health of its workers and the surrounding community."
The serious violations stem from overall deficiencies in the company's PSM programme. Other issues included lack of hoist system inspections, unguarded floor holes, deficiencies in the facility's lockout/tagout programme, unguarded belts, pulleys and sprockets, and electrical hazards. OSHA issues a serious citation when death or serious physical harm is likely to result from a hazard about which an employer knew or should have known.
OSHA cited the company following an inspection conducted under its site-specific targeting programme, which targets employers with high injury and illness rates.
Hiland Dairy Foods has 15 business days from receipt of the citations to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA's area director in Wichita or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, OSHA's role is to promote safe and healthful working conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, outreach and education.
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