Rodney Bridgett, 37, died after he was crushed by a piece of equipment March 14th.DAKOTA CITY, Neb. (KTIV) -
Tyson Foods Incorporated has been cited for seven safety violations after a mechanic was fatally injured on the job at the company's Dakota City, Nebraska plant earlier this year.
Sheriff's officials say on March 14th, 37-year-old Rodney Bridgett was working on a piece of machinery when it collapsed on him. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died.
After an investigation, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says a chain that was used to hold up the equipment failed, and Bridgett was crushed.
OSHA cited Tyson for a willful violation for ineffective safety equipment inspections and failure to make the necessary modifications to protect Bridgett.
"It is unthinkable that an employer would allow workers in and around dangerous operations without ensuring that sufficient safeguards are in place," said Charles E. Adkins, OSHA's regional administrator in Kansas City, Mo. "All employers must take the necessary steps to eliminate hazards from the workplace. OSHA is committed to protecting workers on the job, especially when employers fail to do so."
There are six other federal citations, including five serious violations for failing to provide the proper protective equipment while Bridgett was doing the maintenance work.
The proposed penalties total $104,2000. Tyson has 15 business days from the receipts to comply, contest the findings, or request an informal conference.
Worth Sparkman, Public Relations Manager of Tyson Foods say the company is reviewing the citations and will work cooperatively with OSHA to resolve the agency's concerns. He also says the safety of their employees is important and they want to make sure accidents like this are prevented.
