Feds fine adult group home in E. Idaho

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A federal agency is accusing operators of an adult day care center and group homes in eastern Idaho of failing to provide enough safeguards against violence for their employees. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced the citation Wednesday against South Park Inc., which operates facilities under the name Developmental Options in Pocatello. OSHA’s citation accuses the employer of exposing its workers to repeated instances of violent behavior, aggressive physical contact and attacks by patients in the residential rehabilitation program. The facility provides 24-hour care for people diagnosed with developmental disabilities and employs about 75 people. OSHA investigators began looking into the center after receiving reports of severe attacks against workers. The citation carries a proposed penalty of $4,900. The employer has 15 days to comply with the order.