The USDA has initiated studies to address the long-standing debate over the impact of production line speeds on worker safety. While meat producers advocate for waivers to increase line speeds for greater efficiency, concerns about the health implications for workers persist. The USDA has been working to evaluate these effects comprehensively.
In the studies, a research team from the University of California, San Francisco, assessed 1,047 poultry plant workers and 574 pork plant workers across 17 facilities. Over the past year, the team conducted surveys, medical interviews, and various measurements. Most participants were African American or Latino, many of whom spoke little to no English.
Findings from the poultry study revealed that 81% of workers surveyed were at high risk for musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those handling chicken breasts, thighs, and trim. Despite line speeds, most poultry plants maintained consistent piece rates — the number of meat parts processed per minute — suggesting that increasing staff levels could mitigate health risks without affecting production rates. However, the study also indicated that slower line speeds would further reduce risks.
Labor Secretary Julie Su emphasized the prevalence of chronic pain and musculoskeletal conditions in the meatpacking industry, noting that these issues often go underreported. She urged meat and poultry companies to prioritize worker safety, stating, “The health of our nation depends on it.”
Over the years, Republican lawmakers have supported increased line speeds to help processing plants maximize their capacity. Meanwhile, critics have advocated for safety reforms, including slower line speeds, to minimize workplace injuries.
The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) initiated a study in 2022 to explore how line speeds affect worker health. The agency has extended its timeline multiple times, with the current waivers for participating swine and poultry processing companies now set to expire on May 15.
House Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson and Senate Agriculture Chairman John Boozeman expressed support for the studies’ findings, which they believe demonstrate that higher line speeds are not the primary factor contributing to worker health risks in pork and poultry facilities.
The pork industry study revealed that 46% of workers were at high risk for musculoskeletal disorders, with the effects of line speeds varying between plants. While one pork plant reported increased health risks with higher line speeds, another experienced reduced risks despite operating at faster speeds.
Thompson and Boozeman criticized the Biden administration for what they perceive as an effort to undermine the industry through prolonged studies. They expressed optimism about collaborating with the Trump administration to establish a sustainable solution that supports both worker safety and industry growth, ensuring the production of high-quality protein.
