10 Common Hazards in Food Processing

Safety in the food processing industry is paramount, therefore, it requires stringent efforts. Here is a list of 10 common hazards in food processing

Cross-Contamination and Cross-Contact 

Roughly 48 million people get sick from foodborne illnesses annually. Preventing them is crucial, and that starts with cross-contamination.

1

Harmful Microorganisms 

Microorganisms are another typical food processing hazard. Many of these exist near food sources in nature, so they can enter processing plants.

2

Slips, Trips, and Falls 

Slips, trips, and falls pose significant risks. They caused 18% of all incidents resulting in days away from work in 2020, at a rate of 21.7 injuries per 1000 workers.

3

Fire and Combustion Hazards 

Many plants work with flammable and combustible materials. Ovens or other cooking equipment contain flammable gases, which are potential hazards.

4

Cuts and Scrape Hazards 

Many food processing workflows involve knives or other sharp objects, sharp edges on them present these highly potential risks.

5

Hazardous Machinery 

73% of food companies use automation in their facilities. But machinery introduces some risks of its own. They pose struck-by or caught-in-between risks.

6

Noise 

Busy facilities with large machines generate considerable noise, making it difficult to spot and respond to other dangers. However, often overlooked but pose a serious hazard.

7

Chemical Hazards 

Food processing workers may also come into contact with chemical hazards from refrigerants, propellants, or similar compounds used in work equipment.

8

Ergonomic Risks 

Ergonomic risks seem less dramatic than dangerous chemicals. Many operations involve repeated lifting and carrying motions, which can cause substantial damage.

9

Electrical Hazards 

Food processing plants use electrical equipment. These may not be as prevalent as other hazards, but they can cause severe injuries and deserve attention.

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