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Headquarters of Ourhome in Magok, Seoul. (Photo: Ourhome) |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] A subcontracted worker in his 50s was left in critical condition after being caught in machinery at a food processing plant operated by Ourhome in Yongin, marking a second similar accident at the same facility in just over a year.
According to authorities, the incident occurred at approximately 2:50 p.m. on June 8 at the company’s Yongin No. 2 plant in Cheoin District. The worker, identified only as A, was caught by the neck in a conveyor belt while working at a fish cake skewer packaging line on the fourth floor.
He was rescued in cardiac arrest and transported to a hospital in Osan at around 3:25 p.m. Police later confirmed that while he remains unconscious, his heart is still beating.
Police, responding alongside emergency services, have secured the scene and begun collecting CCTV footage and witness statements. Investigators believe the accident may have occurred when the worker’s head covering became entangled in the conveyor belt machinery.
Authorities are examining whether the company had implemented adequate safety measures. If negligence is found, those responsible could face charges of professional negligence resulting in injury.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor has also launched an investigation into potential violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
An Ourhome official said emergency measures were taken immediately at the scene and that the worker is currently receiving treatment, adding that the company “deeply apologizes for the accident and will do its utmost to support the employee’s recovery.”
The latest incident follows a similar fatal accident at the same plant last year. On April 4, a worker in his 30s suffered cardiac arrest after being caught in a cooling machine and later died on April 9. At the time, the company issued an official apology to the bereaved family and employees.
Authorities emphasized the seriousness of the case, noting that a similar accident had occurred at the same facility, and pledged a thorough investigation.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
