U.S. Department of Labor Investigation Finds South Jersey Wholesale Produce Supplier Failed to Correct Prior Workplace Hazards

PLEASANTVILLE, NJ – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Paris Produce Inc. for failing to correct workplace hazards identified during an August 2017 investigation at the wholesale supplier’s facility in Pleasantville, New Jersey. The company faces $236,089 in penalties.

OSHA initiated a follow-up inspection in January 2019, after Paris Produce Inc. failed to respond to citations issued in the 2017 investigation. During the follow-up visit, OSHA inspectors found two failure-to-abate violations for allowing employees to operate forklifts without proper training, and failing to develop and implement a hazard communication program for employees using chemicals for cleaning and sanitation. Inspectors also identified two repeat violations involving blocked exits and failing to train employees on hazardous chemicals.

“By failing to fix previously cited hazards, Paris Produce continues to expose employees to preventable workplace safety and health hazards, which is unacceptable,” said OSHA Area Director Paula Dixon-Roderick, in Marlton, New Jersey.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and proposed penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to help ensure these conditions for American working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education, and assistance. For more information, visit https://www.osha.gov.

The mission of the Department of Labor is to foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.