Pennsylvania residents who work at poultry processing plants have one of the most dangerous jobs, according to data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The report noted that the job ranks 12th among industries with the most employer severe injury reporting in the United States.
In fact, poultry and meat processing plants reported 180 severe injuries to OSHA from January 2015 to September 2016, putting their workers at some of the highest dangers for suffering serious injuries, according to the National Employment Law Project. A NELP representative said that OSHA’s severe injury report reveals the serious health dangers that those who work in the poultry industry face, and these employees should not have to risk such severe injuries in order to earn their income. The report further noted that of the 14,000 companies that reported the incidents that occurred during the 21-month period for 2015 and 2016, JBS/Pilgrim’s Pride ranked sixth place and Tyson Foods came in fourth place with the most severe injuries.
These facts show that the job is riskier than other hazardous occupations, such as the steel, auto and saw mill industries. However, if employers followed simple safety rules promulgated by OSHA, it is likely that many severe injuries could have been prevented, according to a NELP press release.
Pursuant to the workers’ compensation laws in Pennsylvania, most employees who experience an injury on the job are entitled to certain benefits. An attorney can often assist with the preparation and timely filing of the required claim documentation.
Source: Powder Bulk Solids, “OSHA Data Shows Poultry Processing Among ‘Most Dangerous” Jobs”, April 28, 2017