The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) is fining Del Monte Fresh Produce and American Staffing Resources USD28,700 for safety and health violations that include seven forklift incidents.

The proposal to fine Del Monte and American Staffing follows an inquiry into working conditions at Del Monte's food packaging plant in Portland after Oregon OSHA received a May 14, 2007 complaint and in the wake of a June 6, 2007 forklift incident.

OSHA investigations found the employer failed to adequately investigate reported unsafe acts or unsafe conditions related to forklift accidents.

Seven forklift accidents were documented in 2006, including one in which a worker was struck and injured by a forklift while standing next to a stationary object.

Other violations of the Oregon Safe Employment Act included failing to protect workers from safety hazards and incomplete documentation of workplace injuries and illnesses.

For example, in several areas of the plant, electrical connections were exposed to potential contact with water, endangering workers, and a ladder for employees was used in the closed position leaning against a wall, posing a safety hazard.

In another example, officials say American Staffing Resources failed to co-ordinate with Del Monte Fresh Produce on accurate documenting of workplace injuries and illness in the required OSHA 300 log.

"This investigation revealed numerous safety hazards at the Del Monte plant that could have caused even more accidents and injuries," says Michael Wood, Oregon OSHA administrator.

"If we are going to prevent injuries before they occur, employers must be held accountable for hazards in their workplaces and take steps to correct them."

Oregon OSHA also found violations specific to the June 6, 2007 forklift incident.

The investigation found that the forklift operator was not looking in the direction of the forklift's travel at the time of injury. The operator drove in reverse 17 feet without looking before striking the accident victim. An investigation of the accident showed a hydraulic line showing visible wear and tear, creating a potential for hydraulic fluid to spray.

Del Monte has 20 days from receiving the citation from Oregon OSHA to appeal the findings. Oregon OSHA is proposing fining Del Monte Fresh Produce USD13,100 and American Staffing Resources USD15,600.