GREEN BAY, WIS. ‒ JBS USA was ordered to pay $227,786 in penalties following an incident that left an employee at its Green Bay processing plant with two crushed fingers.

The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cited the company for 10 violations. Other infractions were related to lockout/tagout, fall and electrical hazards and hazard communication.

The OSHA investigation started from a December 2022 incident at the Green Bay plant where a worker was found with injuries to his right index and middle fingers, which were crushed while removing a shackle from a cow moving down a trolley line. 

Agency officials said JBS failed to ensure adequate guarding on the trolley line to protect workers from pinch points.

“Unfortunately, injuries to workers in the meat processing industry are common but they can be prevented when required safety procedures are followed,” said Robert Bonack, area director of OSHA in Appleton, Wis. “JBS Foods is well aware of these typical industry hazards and of their legal obligation to provide employees with a safe and healthful workplace.”

Following the report of the injuries, OSHA expanded its inspection under the Wisconsin Food Manufacturing Industry Local Emphasis Program. 

JBS can request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission or comply within 15 business days.