OSHA fines Aunt Kitty’s Food Inc. $463,224 for 7 safety violations in Vineland

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recently cited Aunt Kitty’s Food Inc., a subsidiary of Hanover Foods Corp., with seven safety violations following a federal investigation that began in September 2023.

The investigation revealed serious lapses in safety protocols, prompting OSHA to propose a penalty of $463,224.

Among the violations cited by OSHA were instances of Aunt Kitty’s Food Inc. failing to implement adequate lockout/tagout procedures for equipment maintenance and sanitation, leading to potential hazards for workers.

Additionally, the company did not maintain a clean and dry work floor, neglected to provide proper guarding on a conveyor system, and lacked adequate training for workers on lockout/tagout procedures. OSHA also found deficiencies in the company’s annual audit processes and in providing necessary audiograms for employees.

In response to these findings, OSHA Area Director Paula Dixon-Roderick stated, “Ensuring lockout/tagout procedures are established and used can make the difference between an employee ending a shift safely and suffering a serious, life-altering injury.” She further emphasized OSHA’s commitment to holding companies accountable for providing a safe and healthful workplace.

Aunt Kitty’s Food Inc., a manufacturer of various canned goods under multiple brand names, operates several manufacturing facilities across Pennsylvania and Guatemala in addition to its Vineland plant.

The company has been given 15 business days to comply with OSHA’s citations and penalties, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

For more information about OSHA and workplace safety standards, interested parties are encouraged to visit the agency’s website.

This article presents a factual overview of the violations cited by OSHA against Aunt Kitty’s Food Inc. without expressing any bias or opinions about the situation.