SAN ANGELO, Texas – 7 S Packing LLC, which operates as Texas Packing Co., was cited for exposing employees to hazardous chemicals according to the US Dept. of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

OSHA said the company will face $615,640 in penalties. The agency determined that the meat-packing facility failed to implement a required Process Safety Management (PSM) program for operating an ammonia refrigeration unit containing over 10,000 pounds of anhydrous ammonia. 

Texas Packing Co. also failed to provide fall protection, guard machines and equipment, control hazardous energy, and implement a respiratory protection program.

The company now has 15 business days from the receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director or contest the findings before the independent occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees.