When you think of poultry processing plants, the first thing that may come to mind is likely images of chickens and turkeys being processed. However, you may not be aware of the daily risks faced by workers in these plants. The most common injuries in poultry processing plants will be covered in this article, along with steps employees can take to prevent them.
7 Common Injuries in Poultry Processing Plants
In facilities that handle poultry, this is by far the most frequent kind of damage. Workers frequently handle sharp objects, and occasionally those objects may slip, resulting in cuts and lacerations. Workers should always use caution while handling sharp objects, and when handling chicken or turkey meat, they should wear gloves and other protective gear.
Burns are another injury that frequently occurs in chicken processing facilities. When cleaning birds or turkeys with hot water, touching hot surfaces, or coming into contact with hot grease or oil, workers run the risk of getting burned. Workers should always use caution when handling hot water to avoid these types of injuries. When working on or near hot surfaces, they should also wear gloves and other safety gear.
Musculoskeletal Injuries
Poultry processing plants are often fast-paced environments, characterized by repetitive motions, lifting heavy objects, or standing for long periods, leading to workers suffering musculoskeletal injuries. To prevent these injuries, workers should take breaks often, and they should use proper lifting techniques when lifting heavy objects.
These injuries can be caused by wet floors, cluttered work areas, or uneven surfaces. To prevent slips, trips and falls, workers should always be aware of their surroundings and wear proper footwear.
Eye Injuries
Eye injuries are also common in poultry processing plants. These injuries can be caused by chicken or turkey feathers, dust, or chemicals. To prevent these injuries, workers should wear safety glasses or goggles.
Respiratory Injuries
Respiratory injuries are also common in poultry processing plants. These injuries can be caused by exposure to dust, feathers, or chemicals. To prevent these types of injuries, workers should wear a respirator or other protective gear.
Hearing Impairment
This is usually caused by exposure to loud noise, such as from machinery. Workers should wear earplugs or other protective gear to prevent this type of injury.
What Should You Do if You’ve Been Injured in a Poultry Processing Plant?
Unfortunately, accidents happen. If you find yourself injured in a poultry processing plant, there are a few things you should generally do.
First and foremost, you should report your injury to your employer and seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is especially important if you’ve suffered a serious injury, such as a laceration or burn. Next, we recommend consulting with an experienced workers compensation attorney who can help protect your legal right to workers compensation benefits.
At the Law Offices of James. M. Hoffmann we’ve been representing injured Missouri workers for over 30 years! Contact us today for a free consultation.
Law Office of James M. Hoffmann
2001 S Hanley Rd #325
St. Louis, MO 63144
(314) 361-4300
