GMU food-service workers strike to protest conditions

[Blue_Tires]

Several dozen food-service workers at George Mason University went on strike Wednesday to protest working conditions in the dining halls, according to a union release.

Workers "have suffered cuts, burns and broken bones on the job," the release states, and have requested safety measures. The French cafeteria contractor has responded with "retaliation," the release says.

I have requested comment from both the university and the contractor and will add it to this report when it arrives.

Workers plan to rally at 1:30 this afternoon.

Union officials say one worker had her finger severed on a meat slicer, while another was burned by chicken grease. They contend basic protective equipment such as gloves might have prevented some injuries.

Last week, some students joined workers in delivering a petition to Sodexo management calling for a safer work environment.

Matt Painter, spokesman for the union local, said GMU employs about 180 Sodexo workers, who prepare food and work as cashiers and dishwashers.

"Some workers have decades of experience doing food service at the school," he said in an e-mail. "During the last school year, workers earned as little as $8.65 an hour--far below the living wage for Fairfax County wage."

Workers authorized the strike in a series of votes yesterday afternoon.

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/college-inc/2010/09/several_dozen_food-service_wor.html