Boiler repair cancels Hormel’s first shift operations
Published 10:10 am Monday, July 26, 2010
Hormel closed down its Austin plant Monday afternoon after a routine check indicated the plant’s boiler was in need of repair.
Julie H. Craven, vice president of corporate communications at Hormel Foods Corp., said the need for the boiler mechanical repair was detected Monday morning during a routine check. Though not serious, Craven said the issue did warrant the temporary closure of the plant.
“The boiler mechanical repair we identified during our routine check is minor, but requires us to shutdown the whole system,” Craven said.
Hormel Foods canceled shifts for those who were scheduled for the plant’s second Monday shift and first Tuesday shift.
About 1,100 employees based at the Austin plan will be affected by the closing, Craven said.
Despite the interruption, Craven said Hormel Foods productivity for the week will not go down, as all work will be made up on Saturday. The new schedule will not impact the delivery of customer orders, Craven said.
Shipping and warehouse employees have been asked to report to work as usual, but all other employees should call 1-888-401-4401 for additional information.