A worker in a Massachusetts hummus factory recently died in a workplace accident after his arm became entangled in an auger, otherwise known as a grinder. According to reports, police arrived at the hummus plant shortly after 1 a.m., and the 28-year-old factory worker was pronounced deceased at the scene. Few details of the accident were available at the time of reports. However, the factory was shut down as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration conducted an investigation.

"It appears to have been a tragic accident," said a spokesman from the county district attorney's office. "It was part of his duties to clean and sanitize the machinery for obvious health code and safety reasons. But the exact circumstances of that will be part of the investigation."

The factory issued a statement expressing sadness over the death of the young man.

Reportedly, the plant produces hummus for the second largest hummus brand on the market. Over the summer, the company completed an $8 million expansion and made plans of increasing its workforce from 65 to 125 employees.

In cases of fatal workplace accidents, Massachusetts and federal laws provide families with the right to ask questions and a right to seek straight answers. Often, a workers' compensation claim can be filed to help with funeral expenses, as well as for any pain and suffering that may have resulted from the fatal accident. Additionally, all employers in Massachusetts have an obligation to provide proper and sufficient training to employees, especially when dangerous machinery is involved. The family of this Massachusetts worker will likely want to ensure that an in-depth investigation is carried out in addition to OSHA's findings. Consulting with a Massachusetts attorney experienced in workers' rights may be a good first step toward ensuring that the family of the deceased worker is duly compensated for their tragic loss.

Source: Daily Mail, "Man dies in horrific accident after getting stuck in food grinder at hummus plant," Dec. 17, 2011