The union raised a complaint with SafeWork SA regarding the production of the ‘Flamin’ Hot’ variety of Doritos corn chips. Image: Mike Mozart, via Flickr
The United Worker’s Union (UWU) has raised a complaint with SafeWork SA regarding the conditions of the Smith’s Chips factory in Adelaide – specifically, around the production of the ‘Flamin’ Hot’ Doritos corn chips.
As the name suggests, the ‘Flamin’ Hot’ variety of Doritos are coated generously in spicy seasonings, which the snack food’s marketing copy proudly states will “ignite your tastebuds”.
However, the UWU says that the workers “raised significant safety concerns regarding the improper handling of strongly irritating substances”, with many reporting symptoms such as irritation to the skin and eyes, runny nose, sore throat and even difficulty breathing.
The union’s report, published on SafeWork SA’s website, stated that about a dozen workers had reported adverse reactions.
“The [company] produces a hot snack product with ‘flaming hot seasoning’ every couple of weeks, the seasoning dispersing across the production area from the seasoning machine,” the report stated.
“After interviewing 13 workers from the afternoon shift, 11 reported various effects, including sneezing, coughing, eye and skin irritation, runny nose, sore throat, chest discomfort, and difficulty breathing.”
A PepsiCo spokesperson responded to the claims, stating that there were already safety measures in place and that the safety of employees was a “top priority”.
“We follow a number of safety procedures and protocols when producing products that include spicy seasoning,” said the spokesperson.
“To further enhance these measures at our Adelaide site there is mandatory mask-wearing during production of this product and we are installing additional extraction fans.
“We are committed to working with our people and the union to address any further concerns.”
UWU organiser Jacky Chen said that while mask-wearing was encouraged, many workers were reluctant to wear masks due to the uncomfortable temperatures within the work site.
SafeWork SA said it was assessing the concerns raised by the union.
“SafeWork is currently considering the complaint lodged by the UWU earlier this month to determine whether further action is warranted,” it said.
Chen said he was yet to receive any update from SafeWork SA on the matter.
