Also, Eaton said, "Any valid concerns raised by the Division of Labor Services have been immediately addressed."
The safety inspection resulted in 26 alleged violations found, including two repeat violations, Koonce said. The health inspection identified 13 alleged violations, she said.
The alleged violations pertained to hazardous chemicals and emergency response preparations, including a lack of proper labeling on hazardous chemicals, lack of an emergency alarm that can be heard by all employees, failure to develop an emergency response plan, and improper programs for both respirator use and blood-borne pathogens, Koonce said.
"This is a large number of penalties and a large
proposed fine," Koonce said. She had no information on
how the proposed penalties compared with previous action
by the division.
Agriprocessors has not yet received any citations
regarding health standards, Eaton said. "The company is
reviewing the citations regarding safety standards and
believes many are not substantiated," he said. "The
company will oppose any improper citations."
Agriprocessors Inc. has 15 days to formally respond to
the citations and proposed fines, Koonce said.
Last fall, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union issued a report with concerns about working conditions and food recalls at the plant. In 2006, the company agreed to pay more than $600,000 in a settlement that resolved a complaint filed by the Environmental Protection Agency over failing to properly treat wastewater.