Case Farms Facing Fines From OSHA Inspection

Written by Tyler R. Etter

On August 13, 2015, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released citations against chicken processor Case Farms facility in Winesburg, Ohio. The inspection occurred in February of 2015, revealing a total of 55 violations, with an assessment of $861,500 in penalties.

The inspection revealed amputation hazard, fall hazards, lack of personal protective equipment, violations of electrical safety standards, improperly stored oxygen cylinders, and a lack of emergency eye wash stations.

The OSHA investigation has characterized Case as an “outrageously dangerous place to work.” Over the past 25 years, Case has had more than 350 violations. According to OSHA, Case Farms has a history of safety violations, with citations issued in 42 out of 66 inspections. Following recent complaints, OSHA is currently investigating Case’s Canton, Ohio operations.

Case Farms has responded to the investigation, stating that it disagrees with the negative characterizations of the company, and that the Winesburg facility had recently passed 900,000 hours without a time-loss injury. According to Case, the last time loss injury occurred was on September, 16, 2014. The company plans on working with OSHA to address the concerns.