The ongoing investigation into the tragic death of a 16-year-old worker at the Mar-Jac Poultry plant in Hattiesburg has taken a critical turn. Federal authorities have reached out to current employees of the plant, urging them to cooperate in the probe. The U.S. Department of Labor is particularly interested in potential child labor law violations and workplace safety standards at the facility.
In a press release issued on September 11, federal investigators revealed their intention to dig deeper into the incident. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Wage and Hour Division are leading the investigation, striving to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Audrey Hall, the District Director of the Wage and Hour Division, emphasized the importance of adhering to child labor laws to prevent similar incidents in the future. These laws are in place to protect young workers, and it is crucial that they are followed to ensure the safety of individuals in the workforce.
To facilitate a thorough investigation, OSHA has obtained a warrant from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi. This legal document grants federal officials access to the Mar-Jac facility and allows them to conduct private interviews with employers, operators, agents, or employees. They will also review relevant records related to the operation and maintenance of the equipment involved in the tragic event.
Courtney Bohannon, the OSHA Area Director in Jackson, Mississippi, stressed the need for cooperation from the plant's employees. She reassured them that federal law protects their rights to participate in the investigation and prohibits employers from interfering or retaliating against employees who choose to cooperate. By working together, the hope is to create a safer environment for everyone at the Mar-Jac Poultry plant.
