On Monday morning there was an industrial accident at International Nutrition in south-central Omaha. The accident would result in ten people being sent to the hospital, and two suffering from critical injuries.
At the time of the incident, there were 38 people at work, while they could not determine how many remained inside. According to Interim Fire Chief Bernard Kanger, “It was a very dangerous situation and continues to be very dangerous”.
One man was taken to the hospital in critical condition after being struck by an object and being submerged in cold water, while another man was being treated for a collapsed lung after inhaling limestone dust.
Reports did indicate that the accident was not caused by hazardous chemicals, as International Nutrition manufactures animal supplements and feed products for animal health distributors, feed manufacturers, and large livestock producers.
OSHA does however consider this a high hazard industry as there is a great risk of grain dust explosions. In fact, over the past 35 years, there have been over 500 explosions at grain handling facilities, which have injured over 675 people and killed over 180.
Firefighters are currently investigating the possibility of an explosion, as rescuers witnessed flames and smoke while they approached the plant. As this accident was horrific, it is not the first time an accident has occurred at this plant.
In August, 2002, a man was crushed to death by a mixing machine, and the company was fined a total of $13,600 by OSHA for five violations, and another discovered during the investigation of the accident. Then, in 2012, the company was fined $10,430 by OSHA for six violations found during a planned inspection.
Inkelaar Law is offering free consultations for victims of the International Nutrition explosion, and welcomes you to contact our firm at 1-877-537-4665 today.
