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Report Highlights Ergonomics Progress in the Poultry Industry

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Washington, D.C., January 28, 2010 -

For Immediate Release

U.S. Poultry & Egg Association

National Chicken Council

National Turkey Federation

Contact Larry Brown Lbrown@poultryegg.org

Richard Lobb rlobb@chickenusa.org

Sherrie Rosenblatt srosenblatt@turkeyfed.org

 ATLANTA, GA – Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in the poultry industry have declined 75 percent during the last 25 years, according to a recently released report.  It chronicles the progress and successes the U.S. poultry industry has experienced in ergonomics and subsequent decrease in workers’ musculoskeletal disorders. 

The report unveils the results of a study commissioned by the Joint Industry Safety and Health Council. The study, “Ergonomics in the Poultry Industry: A Review of 25 Years of Industry Efforts,” describes the industry’s efforts in the prevention and early treatment of MSDs.  It also discusses how the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has focused attention on the poultry industry and the positive results from OSHA and the industry working together.

“During the 25 years this study reviewed, the poultry industry has been a leader in reducing musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace,” said council chairman, Brian Rodgers, Butterball, LLC.  And although it is an ongoing effort, we can be proud of the industry’s progress.  It can serve as a model for other industries that are facing the same challenges.”

The Joint Industry Safety and Health Council is made up of members from the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, National Chicken Council, and National Turkey Federation.  Collectively, the member companies of the three organizations produce 95 percent of the nation’s poultry products and employ hundreds of thousands of workers.

The report may be accessed at http://www.poultryegg.org/files/ergojan2010.pdf

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