Forum to Address Growing Garment Industry’s Woes

As part of a drive to curb sweatshop abuses, labor officials have scheduled a garment industry forum this month in Santa Ana.

The May 28 meeting is the first of its kind in Orange County, reflecting the area’s booming number of sewing contractors as well as the increase in violations uncovered by inspectors.

The forum will be from 1 to 3 p.m. on the ninth floor of the Federal Building, 34 Civic Center Plaza. It is intended for garment contractors and manufacturers.

Brian Taverner, head of the U.S. Labor Department’s wage and hour office in Santa Ana, said the forum will provide information about labor laws and inspections, which are expected to double this year. “If they have any questions on enforcement, any ideas or complaints, this is their opportunity to do so,” he said.

The number of garment contractors in Orange County has jumped by more than 64% since 1991 to more than 525 last year. Labor officials, who plan to inspect 100 shops this year, hope the forum will help keep violations in check.

Besides the Labor Department, officials from the state Division of Labor Standards Enforcement and Cal/OSHA will be at the meeting. Vietnamese and Spanish translators also will be available. No reservations are required.

Don Lee covers workplace issues for The Times. He can be reached at (714) 966-7407 and at don.lee@latimes.com