CHICAGO, Ill. (Reuters) — The U.S. Labor Department has cited Smithfield Foods for failing to protect employees from COVID-19.
It is the first major U.S. meat packer to face a fine after outbreaks at slaughterhouses infected thousands of workers this spring and caused meat shortages.
The department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited Smithfield Packaged Meats Corp. in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for “failing to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that can cause death or serious harm.”
At least 1,294 Smithfield workers contracted coronavirus and four employees died, the statement said.
OSHA proposed fining Smithfield $13,494, the maximum allowed by law. The citation comes as companies are facing increasing litigation over worker infections and mounting pressure to protect employees.
