A poultry worker from Geelong was hospitalised when his arm was pulled into a cutting machine at Turi Foods’ Golden Farms Breakwater plant . The 40-year old man was dragged into the machine after his clothing become caught in the machinery.
He was immediately taken to Geelong Hospital for emergency surgery to treat a deep cut and torn muscle in upper
WorkSafe officials are currently looking into the incident that they deemed as non-life-threatening.
National Union of Workers lead organiser Belinda Jacobi revealed that unions had recently visited the site following member’s safety concerns.
“We have very serious concerns about injury rates in this industry,” Ms Jacobi said.
“A survey of 1000 workers showed 35 per cent have sustained an injury in the workplace and we’ve had fatalities.”
Jacobi cited the union’s main concerns as the line speeds of processing plants, with the Breakwater facility handling 100,000 birds a day while having employment through casual and contract roles which, she said, contributed to risk.
“We understand he (the victim) was intending to return to India today for a holiday to see his family,” she said.
“Members had told us of concerns at the plant and we will continue our campaign.
“Our members who work in food processing should be able to work safely.”
Golden Farms did not respond to a request for comment.
In 2009, major poultry company Baiada, the safety record of which had been the subject of a coronial inquest, was forced by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to offload the Breakwater plant to Turi Foods for its acquisition of poultry giant Bartter to be approved.
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Source : http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/article/2013/05/20/365368_news.html
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