Gallo and Farm Labor Contractors First in Agriculture Industry to Receive Cal/OSHA Golden Gate Award

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS233655+05-Nov-2009+BW20091105

Thu Nov 5, 2009 3:04pm EST

HEALDSBURG, Calif.--(Business Wire)--
The Department of Industrial Relations` Cal/OSHA program today presented the
Golden Gate Partnership Award to the Gallo Family Vineyards and their Farm Labor
Contractors (FLC) for their commitment to workplace safety. This represents a
milestone for the agricultural industry in California and demonstrates a
noticeable move in the establishment of a higher commitment to employee safety
in the fields.

"Cal/OSHA is proud to recognize its partnerships with growers and farm labor
contractors to ensure the safety and health of California`s field workers," said
Department of Industrial Relations Director John C. Duncan. "This new
partnership is an innovative approach to improving occupational safety and
health in the agricultural industry and represents an ongoing shift in the
attitude towards an improved safety culture in the fields."

The Farm Labor contractors to be honored are: Alondra Gonzalez Lara Farm Corp.;
Hilario Rodriguez FLC; Sergio Alba Velazquez FLC; Servin Lopez Vineyard
Management Inc; and, Viramontes Vineyard Management Co.

"Cal/OSHA strongly believes that working directly with employers who have a
positive attitude toward safety and encouraging them to take the necessary steps
to improve their safety culture is critical for business success," said Cal/OSHA
Chief Len Welsh. "This recognition program has immense value to employers - it
effectively reduces workers` comp costs and increases both employee morale and
productivity. It`s a total win-win for employers and workers."

As the first established OSHA Consultation Unit in the nation, Cal/OSHA again
leads the way in changing the safety culture of California agricultural
businesses and reducing the hazards that create unsafe work environments in the
fields. The recognition program relies on industry, labor and government to work
as partners in creating a shift in workplace culture that will increase safety
and health on the job while effectively preventing and controlling injuries and
illnesses. Through Cal/OSHA`s free consultation services, employers can receive
assistance in improving their workplace safety.

FULL story at link.