News

Meat industry sees best safety rates

A new report finds nonfatal injuries and illness in the meat packing, processing and poultry industry remain at an all-time low.

The Department of Labor says there were a little more than five recordable occupational illnesses or injury cases per 100 full-time workers in 2015 in the meat industry. The most serious injuries reported also fell to their lowest level.  Animal production and aquaculture had just under six cases per 100 workers, with aquaculture and pig production having the highest number of reportable cases.

American Meat Institute President and CEO Barry Carpenter says the industry doesn’t expect large improvements at this point because of the safety advancements already in place, but he’s pleased the changes have resulted in the lowest safety rates on record for 2015.

The National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation and U.S. Poultry & Egg Association in a joint release say the industry has focused on preventing workplace injuries and illnesses, and is committed to finding new and innovative ways to protect employees.