Pennsylvania considers workplace safety regulations for food processors

Pennsylvania lawmakers are considering a bill that would require meatpacking and other food processing companies to better protect workers from injuries and illnesses, including communicable diseases.

H.B. 2235, introduced Thursday, would create regulations requiring workplace health and safety committees and establish the position of workers’ rights coordinator within the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.

The measure calls on employers to inform new hires of workplace risks, including respiratory hazards, repetitive strain injuries and musculoskeletal disorders.

The bill would also create public health emergency protections for workers under certain conditions, such as an “imminent threat of illness or health condition caused by epidemic or pandemic disease” or when the governor declares a state of emergency.

A hearing on the legislation is scheduled for Tuesday.