This article will discuss some of the most common injuries in poultry processing plants and what workers can do to prevent them.
When you think of poultry processing plants, the first thing that comes to mind may naturally be images of chickens and turkeys being processed. However, for many workers in poultry processing plants, it may be the risks they face on a daily basis. This article will discuss some of the most common injuries in poultry processing plants and what workers can do to prevent them.
7 Common Injuries in Poultry Processing Plants
Cuts and Lacerations
This is by far the most common type of injury in poultry processing plants. Workers are constantly handling sharp tools, and sometimes those tools slip, causing cuts and lacerations. Workers may also be cut by the chicken or turkey meat itself. To prevent these types of injuries, workers should always use caution when handling sharp tools, and they should wear gloves and other protective gear when working with chicken or turkey meat.
Burns
Another common type of injury in poultry processing plants is burns. Workers may suffer burns from hot water used to clean the chickens or turkeys, from touching hot surfaces, or from coming into contact with hot grease or oil. To prevent these types of injuries, workers should always use caution when handling hot water. They should also wear gloves and other protective gear, especially when working with hot surfaces.
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.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
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. To prevent this type of injury, workers should wear earplugs or other protective gear.
What Should You Do if You’re Injured in a Poultry Processing Plant?
No one wants to get injured on the job. Unfortunately, accidents happen. If you find yourself injured in a poultry processing plant, there are a few things you should do.
First and foremost, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is especially important if you’ve suffered a serious injury, such as a laceration or burn. You should also report the injury to your employer. Next, you may also want to consult with an experienced St. Louis workers’ comp attorney at The Law Offices of James. M. Hoffman. We’ve been representing injured workers for over 25 years and can fight to get you the compensation you deserve! Contact us today for a free consultation.