Thinkstock
finger amputation

Investigation of Finger Amputation Uncovers Safety Violations at Food Processor

Dec. 28, 2017
A Pasco, Wash., food processing plant has been cited for repeated serious violations after a worker's finger was partially amputated in moving machinery.

Freeze Pak, a division of Oregon Potato Co., faces $92,400 in fines from Washington’s Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) for three repeat-serious violations, along with two serious and one general violation.

L&I began an investigation of the facility in June after the worker suffered a fractured wrist and partially amputated finger when his hand got caught in a conveyor while he was cleaning under it. It’s the third time in three years that workers for the company have suffered amputation injuries on the job.

Working in and around hazardous machinery and equipment requires safety procedures, known as lockout/tagout, to prevent the machinery from starting or moving during service and maintenance. The penalty for the repeat-serious lockout/tagout violation is $52,800.

L&I has cited the employer four times in three years for similar violations; three of those involved a finger amputation. 

The investigation also found two instances where Freeze Pak did not adequately guard machinery to protect employees from exposure to serious injuries like broken bones, amputations, permanent disability or death. Both cases involved problems with a waste conveyor. The employer was cited for the same two violations in December 2014. Because of that, they’re considered repeat-serious violations and carry a penalty of $13,200.

Two serious violations cited were for lack of a written energy-control program to prevent inadvertent startup of machine or equipment, and for not providing suitable tools to protect employees from hazards while working the conveyor. Those violations each carry a penalty of $6,600.

The company also was cited for one general violation for not inspecting and replacing worn parts on a “door closer” on the conveyor that wasn’t working. General violations typically do not carry a penalty.

As a result of the repeat-serious violations associated with an amputation injury, the employer has been identified as a severe violator and will be subject to follow-up inspections to determine if the cited conditions still exist in the future.

Freeze Pak has appealed the citation.

About the Author

Sandy Smith

Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

Sponsored Recommendations

Navigating ESG Risk in Your Supply Chain

Sept. 26, 2024
Discover the role of ESG in supply chains, from reducing carbon footprints to complying with new regulations and enhancing long-term business value.

Best Practices for Managing Subcontractor Risk

Sept. 26, 2024
Discover how to effectively manage subcontractor risk with unified strategies, enhanced oversight, and clear communication for consistent safety and compliance.

Fitting in Fast: Making a Safe Workplace for New Hires

Sept. 12, 2024
Over a third of nonfatal injuries happen to workers who have been with their current employer for less than a year.

Top 10 Causes of Distracted Driving—and What They All Have in Common

Aug. 27, 2024
The results reveal the top ten causes of distracted driving, and make it clear that not all distractions are created equal.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!