Stoop Tools

The Times has gone to considerable effort in recent months to once again make an issue of agriculture’s use of short-handled tools in its fields. It apparently has not, however, made that same effort to understand Western Growers Assn.’s position on the matter.

In your editorial (Feb. 25), “Speak of the Devil,” you accurately said that Western Growers Assn. is suggesting that the short-handled hoe be unconditionally banned and that long-handled tools be used in the manner intended.

What is not accurate, however, is your statement that we also are including an outright ban on “any other short-handled tools that require workers to stoop, kneel or squat” in our recommendations.

In many industries, there are, unfortunately, jobs that require workers to “stoop, kneel or squat.” Agriculture is not alone in its need to use certain short-handled tools. Carpenters are required to stoop to use a hammer. Carpet layers must kneel in order to ensure proper installation. Field workers must stoop to use a knife to harvest lettuce, just as linoleum installers must stoop to use a knife to cut around cabinets. For these and many other jobs, there are no practical alternatives.

As an organization that represents producers of fresh fruits and vegetables in the West, we are highly supportive of legislative, regulatory and other efforts to promote and encourage worker safety and health. We provide our members’ employees with comprehensive accident and health benefit programs, and we have a staff of individuals whose only job is to improve safety in our members’ fields and packinghouses.

However, our association cannot, and does not, support the banning of tools that are required to carry out a particular line of work, regardless of the industry or profession involved.

DARYL ARNOLD Newport Beach Arnold is president of Western Growers Assn.