Pork processor cited after workers sickened by ammonia gas exposure

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration said Tuesday that it cited an Ohio pork processing company after two workers became sickened during an ammonia gas exposure incident at the facility.

OSHA cited Sandusky-based HK Cooperative Inc., operating as J.H. Routh Packing Co., for 40 “serious” violations, two “other-than-serious” violations and one “repeat” violation and proposed $528,441 in penalties after safety investigators, tipped off by a local government agency, found that workers were exposed to ammonia while servicing a refrigeration system in December 2023 and January of this year.

During the inspections, OSHA discovered other safety concerns, including inadequate permit-required confined space procedures, no hazard communication plans, electrical hazards and lack of personal protective equipment.

HK Cooperative has 15 business days to contest the citation and proposed penalties.

OSHA had cited the company in March for failing to protect employees from bloodborne pathogens. HK Cooperative is currently contesting that citation and a proposed $13,828 penalty.