A Georgia poultry processing plant that had a fatal liquid nitrogen release in January 2021 was cited by OSHA after the plant experienced another chemical release March 11.
Less than two months after the nitrogen leak killed six workers, leading to $1 million in fines for four companies, the plant experienced an ammonia leak.
Inspectors found 23 safety and health violations at the facility, including failure to install a system to protect workers from anhydrous ammonia.
Note: Copies of the citations and the severity of the violations were not immediately available.
Fine: $154,674
Company: Foundation Food Group, Gainesville, GA
Business: Poultry processing
Reason for fine:
23 violations, including failure to:
- prevent workers from being exposed to dermal and respiratory hazards from potential unexpected releases of anhydrous ammonia
- install systems to protect employees from unexpected anhydrous ammonia releases
- guard horizontal shafts on conveyors
- provide adequate lockout/tagout training
- ensure workers used locks to isolate hazardous energy during equipment maintenance
- label electrical breakers
- cover unused openings in electrical boxes
- use electrical devices as designed
- provide fall protection for employees working at heights over 4 feet
- require employees to use eye protection while working with compressed air
- provide adequate hearing protection, testing and training for employees exposed to noise hazards
- maintain drainage in areas of wet processes