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Cutting
Task 8: Back/Breast Separator
Employees
may use a saw with a manual feed to separate the breast section from the
back. This manual feed technique can be used to remove legs from the back, divide the
legs, cut wings away from the breast, and to split the breast in two.
After being loaded, automated multi-cut machines perform the same cuts as described
above.
Hazards of this task may include:
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Reaching to access product, saws, or machine load areas
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Hazardous Situation:
Employee repeatedly reaches to conveyor or shelf to obtain birds for processing. Repetitive
reaching stresses the shoulder and upper back.
Possible Solutions:
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If
the feed conveyor is between the saw and the employee, reduce
the width of feed conveyors to reduce
reaching to machine.
- Use
diverter bars to push the product closer to the employee.
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Reduce width of the supply conveyor so the product is
presented closer to
the employee.
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Position
saws and other work fixtures so all activities of the task can be performed with the elbows in close
to the torso.
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Cuts and lacerations
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Hazardous Situation:
The nature of this task involves employee working
with an unguarded saw. Cuts, lacerations, and amputations are possible.
Possible Solutions:
- Wear cut-proof mesh gloves on both hands.
- Keep hands to the side of the blade during feeding of product.
- Guard all portions of the blade except for an opening large enough to feed product.
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Standing for a long time
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Hazardous Situation:
Standing for a long time
reduces blood flow to the legs, forces isolated muscles to work for an extended
time, and increases risk of fatigue and varicose veins.
Possible Solutions:
- Install
sit/stand stools, which allow
employees to lean and have their weight supported while still remaining in an upright
posture.
- Rotate
employees to tasks that do not require prolonged standing.
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Provide
shoe insoles that cushion the feet and spread foot pressure over a larger surface.
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Provide a foot rest
in front of employees so they can shift their posture.
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