OSHA Fines Beef Plant after Massive COVID Outbreak

The Iowa Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has fined the Iowa Premium Beef Plant in Tama, IA $957 after a COVID-19 outbreak.

The outbreak--which occurred in April--resulted in 338 of the plant's 850 workers--nearly 40%--testing positive for the virus, 80 more cases than previously revealed.

The plant was not cited for any health and safety violations; the $957 fine was for failing to keep a required log of workplace-related injuries and illnesses, and for failing to provide the document to inspectors in a timely fashion.

The meatpacking plant is owned by National Beef.