Congresswoman Waters' Statement on Cal/OSHA's Decision to Cite Menzies Aviation for Safety Violation

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) released the following statement today regarding the California Department of Industrial Relations' Division of Occupation Safety and Health's (Cal/OSHA) announcement to fine Menzies Aviation $77,250 following an investigation into the February death of an employee at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

"I applaud the announcement by Cal/OSHA to fine Menzies Aviation $77,250 for several safety violations uncovered during its investigation into the death of airport worker Cesar Valenzuela. I find it deeply disturbing that these violations may have contributed to Mr. Valenzuela's death.

"Cal/OSHA determined that Menzies employees have been subject to unsafe working conditions at LAX. According to reports, Menzies was fined nearly $95,000 in 2013 for unsafe practices at LAX including the type of violations that if not fixed could result in the death of a worker. The airport administration and the airlines must take responsibility for maintaining safe working conditions at LAX.

"We cannot continue to allow companies like Menzies to operate in an unsafe manner at LAX, putting both workers and passengers at risk. The traveling public and employees that work at LAX deserve better. Airport workers should be able to do their jobs without the fear of losing their lives.

"Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA), the operator of LAX, has been investing in structural improvements to attract domestic and international travelers and help maintain the airport's standing as an economic engine for the region. But the best way for LAX to be a world class airport is to put safety first. It's time for the leadership at LAX to step up and show their commitment to holding airline contractors accountable. I see no reason why LAWA should continue contracting with Menzies Aviation, which has been fined and cited on more than one occasion for unsafe practices."

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