Killer company fined $551,719 as worker amputation marks the 6th OSHA action in 5 years

CJ TMI Manufacturing America LLC, a frozen food manufacturer that paid a $368,513 penalty after fatal December 2021 accident, now faces a $551,719 fine from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) following an incident in August 2023 where a worker suffered an amputation.

This latest inspection marks the sixth time in the past five years that the company’s New Jersey operation has been inspected by OSHA, raising concerns about its compliance with safety and health standards.

OSHA’s investigation revealed that CJ TMI Manufacturing America LLC exposed its workers to lockout/tagout hazards, which involve the inadvertent release of energy, leading to four willful, one repeat, and three serious violations. As a result, the company faces a proposed penalty of $551,719.

OSHA Area Director Paula Dixon-Roderick expressed grave concern, stating, “This company continues to leave its workers vulnerable to hazardous conditions that threaten their safety. These hazards must be addressed immediately to prevent another incident.”

CJ TMI Manufacturing America LLC, a subsidiary of CJ CheilJedang, specializes in manufacturing frozen dumplings, wontons, and noodles under brands such as Twin Marquis and Chef One. Despite being part of a large conglomerate with significant resources, the company has repeatedly failed to ensure a safe working environment for its employees.

In addition to the recent amputation incident, CJ TMI Manufacturing America LLC has a history of safety violations, including a fatal accident in December 2021 where a contractor fell from a scissor lift while replacing a freezer drain. This incident resulted in 36 violations and a penalty of $368,513.

OSHA’s investigations have identified a range of hazards at the company’s facilities, including unguarded machinery leading to amputations and lacerations, explosion hazards from combustible flour dust, confined space hazards, hexavalent chromium hazards, chemical burns, and risks associated with forklift operations and electric shocks.

The company has been given 15 business days to respond to the citations and penalties issued by OSHA, including the option to comply, request an informal conference, or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.