DENVER -- The U.S. Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited the Denver Zoological Foundation Inc. for alleged unsafe working conditions following a fatal accident where employee Ashlee Pfaff, 27, was mauled by "Jorge," a 6-year-old jaguar, on Feb. 24.

A citation issued to the organization by OSHA's Denver area office alleges one serious violation of the Occupational Safety and Health Act for failure to provide appropriate protocols to prevent inadvertent contact with dangerous animals. The citation carries a proposed penalty of $3,500.

"This was a tragic incident, and we hope to work cooperatively with the Denver Zoological Foundation staff to assist them in enhancing their safety and health program," said Herb Gibson, OSHA area director in Denver. "Safety and health programs are an important part of every organization, and they instill a safety culture that reduces the potential for accidents."

A serious citation is issued when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known.

The employer has 15 working days from receipt of the citations to request an informal conference with the OSHA area director or to contest the citations and proposed penalties before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

"We welcome the opportunity to partner with OSHA to strengthen our safety program," said Craig Piper, the Denver Zoo’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

The Zoo said earlier that its own investigation showed Pfaff was responsible for the mauling.

"Our investigation shows Ashlee did not follow established safety protocols on the day of the accident," Piper said last month.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual process improvement in workplace safety and health. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.