Working in a fresh food manufacturing plant means being part of the overall supply chain that brings Americans (and others) their food. It can also be a highly dangerous occupation. The number of serious injuries, including amputations, affecting such workers has reached alarming levels in Illinois and throughout the country in recent years.
In fact, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 126 amputations were reported in fresh food manufacturing facilities from 2016 through 2020. These often occur when workers are using large machinery required to do their job.
One Chicago plant has had multiple amputations – and safety violations
For example, OSHA conducted an investigation of a Chicago area facility after a worker got his hand caught in a pasta machine in 2020 and ended up losing his arm. OSHA cited the company for multiple and repeated safety violations – including a “willful” violation related to worker safety training.
This wasn’t the first time someone suffered an amputation in the plant – or the last. The company agreed to make safety enhancements, including retraining its workers on safe operation of the equipment. The problem isn’t always user error, however. Faulty or old equipment can fail to function as it should, which can leave those using it vulnerable to serious injuries.
The U.S. food supply chain is fraught with risks
These plants aren’t the only place where workers are at risk of serious injury. A study published by Pennsylvania State University two years ago highlighted the dangers that workers face throughout the food supply chain. The moving of so much prepackaged food and the pressure to keep up with demands and deadlines can leave workers vulnerable to all-too-common injuries like being struck by equipment like forklifts and trucks.
The study’s lead researcher noted that the Penn State team “wanted to emphasize the importance of the blue-collar food industry workers and the sacrifices they make every day to get food from the farm to our tables.”
Workers’ compensation can help – but may not be the only option
It’s important to know that workers’ compensation is usually available regardless of whether an injury was the fault of the employer or the worker (with some exceptions), even if it couldn’t have been prevented. In some cases, a third party like an equipment manufacturer could be liable.
Getting medical attention is always the first priority after suffering an injury. Seeking the necessary compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages and possibly other damages is also crucial. Getting experienced legal guidance can help injured workers and surviving loved ones of those who have been fatally injured, and is almost always a wise move.