In 2013, Tyson Foods was ordered to pay a civil penalty of $3.95 million, create a new risk-management program and provide $300,000 for emergency response equipment in communities where it operates. The penalty was ordered for “various violations of the regulations” related to anhydrous ammonia, a gas that’s commonly used in refrigeration but can cause burning, choking and even death at high exposure at facilities in Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri. Tyson disputed many of the government’s charges but agreed to pay the fine.
Ammonia, as well as hydrogen sulfide, methane, and others are among the dangerous gases found in poultry, pork and beef processing plants. Exposure to these harmful substances is a growing concern in a dangerous industry faced with increasing pressures of global competition. Operations are challenged with balancing increased output and operational efficiency with safety risk to workers and the surrounding community.