After more than 300 positive cases, four deaths and questions over safety protocols in the factory, Los Angeles Apparel’s manufacturing centers have reopened.
“After working with our department, [Los Angeles Apparel is] insuring their employees are trained, physically distanced, wearing face coverings and that their facility is following enhanced cleaning regimens,” the department said, according to CNN.
Last week, multiple Los Angeles Apparel employees went to the press to say that the company was not practicing correct safety measures, and blamed factory management when they got sick.
Los Angeles Apparel founder Dov Charney denied the allegations that his company was at fault for employees falling ill, stating that they implemented preventative measures in all of their facilities, but local authorities saw some discrepancies.
The goal, however, for Charney and Los Angeles Apparel was to reopen as soon as possible. So it was in his best interest to play ball and listen to the county health department. CNN reported that Los Angeles Apparel is now screening employees for symptoms of COVID-19, and will immediately disclose any new cases to the health department.
“We have and will continue to follow all safety protocols in connection to the COVID-19 pandemic, Charney told CNN.
LA County public health officials will still drop in periodically to ensure safety measures are being enforced. It was after employees complained to authorities about working conditions that public health workers noticed that not all employees were practicing social distancing or wearing masks when they needed to.
For now, though, authorities are going to trust that the company will hold up its end of the bargain.
“We continue to work collaboratively with the Department of Public Health, and are thankful for their cooperation,” Charney said. “We always pursue the highest safety standards for our workers, and will make improvements on an ongoing basis.”
