October 23, 2024 | Dixon, CA — MedLegalNews.com — Cal/OSHA has cited Ruiz Farm Labor in Dixon for failing to protect its employees from heat illness, imposing a penalty of $17,550 for three serious heat illness violations of California’s heat illness prevention standard.
The investigation began in June after reports surfaced that the farm labor contractor allegedly fired a group of workers, known as the Yolo Six, for leaving their shifts early during a heat wave due to inadequate safety measures. Cal/OSHA initiated an inspection on June 13 in response to these claims.
Cal/OSHA’s investigation found that the employer did not:
- Implement high heat or emergency response procedures.
- Provide effective heat illness prevention training for both supervisors and non-supervisory employees.
- Adhere to its heat illness prevention plan regarding the acclimatization of employees during their first 14 days of working in direct sunlight and temperatures exceeding 95 degrees.
Additionally, the Labor Commissioner’s Office is looking into the alleged retaliatory actions, while the Agricultural Labor Relations Board is investigating claims of unfair labor practices filed by agricultural workers against Cooley Enterprises, Inc., the company that hired Ruiz Farm Labor Contractor.
For official details on heat illness standards and penalties, visit Cal/OSHA Heat Illness Prevention.
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FAQs: Cal/OSHA Heat Illness Violation
What constitutes a Cal/OSHA heat illness violation?
A Cal/OSHA heat illness violation occurs when employers fail to provide adequate training, emergency procedures, or acclimatization for employees working in extreme heat.
How much was Ruiz Farm Labor fined for the heat illness violations?
Cal/OSHA issued a penalty of $17,550 for three serious heat illness violations at Ruiz Farm Labor in Dixon, California.
Can employees report a Cal/OSHA heat illness violation?
Yes. Employees or witnesses can contact Cal/OSHA to report unsafe working conditions or suspected heat illness violations.
What additional investigations are ongoing related to Ruiz Farm Labor?
The Labor Commissioner’s Office is reviewing alleged retaliatory actions, while the Agricultural Labor Relations Board is investigating claims of unfair labor practices filed by agricultural workers against the hiring company.