Two Pork Processors Get the Green Light to Increase Line Speeds
Two more New Swine Inspection System (NSIS) hog harvesting facilities get the green light to increase line speeds: Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc. in Madison, Neb. and Swift Pork Company in Beardstown, Ill.
Recalling July 1, 2021, line speeds at six plants began running as much as 25% to 30% slower and the national capacity of hog slaughter decreased by 2.5%, due to line speed regulation.
Then, in November 2021, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), in collaboration with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), developed a “time-limited trial” to enable plants run faster line speeds.
With experimentation in ergonomics, automation and crewing to create custom work environments that aim to protect food and worker safety, with the goal of increased productivity, these NSIS establishments have increased line speed while collecting data that measures the impact of line speed on workers.
NSIS establishments may apply to participate in this trial and must implement worker safety measures that’s representative of employees and in agreement with the workers’ union and worker safety committee.
Under the trial, all NSIS establishments are required to operate at line speeds that do not exceed 1,106 head per hour, says a USDA release.
Read More:
Faster Line Speeds at NSIS Pork Plants: Huge Deal for Producers
Who Will Pay the Cost of Reduced Line Speeds in Pork Plants?
The Reality of Slower Line Speeds
FSIS Approves Fourth Pork Plant to Increase Line Speed
