COLUMBUS JUNCTION, Iowa – The investigation continues in the death of a janitor, who was found unresponsive in a non-production area of Tyson Foods Inc.’s Columbus Junction pork plant

The janitor was employed by Packers Sanitation Services Inc. (PSSI), a contract sanitation company that serves protein markets, bakeries, fresh-cut produce and ready-to-eat food manufacturing facilities. On the morning of Aug. 11, he was found unresponsive in a locker room at the plant. In a statement, PSSI said based on a preliminary investigation, which is ongoing, “all signs point to a non-work related death.”

“We are deeply saddened over the loss of our employee and above all else, our thoughts and sympathies are with our employee’s family,” PSSI said. “We have been in contact with our employee’s family and will be assisting the family with the processing of relevant benefit claims. Our entire company is grieving over our employee’s sudden passing.”

Out of respect for the man's family, the company is not releasing his name until PSSI has confirmed that all next of kin have been contacted. The janitor had worked for PSSI a few times, but continuously since July 2012.

“We are working with the local authorities and Iowa OSHA who are currently investigating this matter,” PSSI said. “Additional information will be provided upon the conclusion of the investigations.” At least 1,200 workers are employed at the Columbus Junction plant in Louisa County, according to Tyson Foods’ website.