|
 Printer-Friendly Version
Archived News Release--Caution:
information may be out of date.
For more information call: (202) 219-8211
"We have seen some encouraging signs that DeCoster intends to fix
problems at the farms. I am hopeful that the company's new team, hired to
oversee improvements, and the purchase of new trailers to house workers, will
make a difference," said Secretary of Labor Robert B. Reich. "But it's my duty
to guarantee that DeCoster pays the appropriate penalty for violating the law,
and to make sure that any positive changes made in DeCoster's working
conditions become permanent."
"When Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act, it made
clear that monetary penalties are needed to create the right incentives for
employers to comply with safety and health standards from the beginning," said
Reich. "It's not enough just to fix violations after workers already have been
exposed to dangers."
Attorneys for the Labor Department today took steps in the department's
case against DeCoster Egg Farms, by formally asking DeCoster for information
related to its position in the case. Department attorneys also asked the
Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission for permission to take
testimony from DeCoster managers. The steps are designed to help prepare the
case for trial before a Review Commission judge.
DeCoster Egg Farms, one of the nation's largest egg producers, was
cited July 12 for numerous alleged egregious and willful violations of health
and safety and wage and hour laws.
Since the mid-1970s, DeCoster Egg Farms has been inspected 15 times by
OSHA inspectors for safety and health violations and by Wage and Hour
investigators for failure to pay wages when due. Most recently, OSHA cited the
company for violations of safety and health regulations at its worksite and
workers' temporary housing and failing to correct conditions cited on previous
inspections.
Workers at the Maine migrant farm lived with exposure to live
electrical parts and inoperable smoke alarms. Often 12 people lived in one
10-foot by 60-foot trailer. Overused septic tanks overflowed, causing toilet
contents to back up several inches into shower tubs. Without adequate and
operable shower or laundry facilities, workers were often unable to clean
themselves or their soiled clothes. Although they were required to clean the
processing plant for as many as 10 hours per night, they were paid for only
3-1/2 hours.
"Although we have met with DeCoster's representatives, we have no
assurances that the company will bring this matter to an end," said Reich.
"Today's motion will expedite the resolution of this case, ensure justice is
served and that workers are protected."
"We are ready to meet with DeCoster representatives at any time, and
look forward to a speedy resolution of this matter," said Reich.
Archived News Release--Caution:
information may be out of date.
| 
