OSHA Says Warehouse Workers Faced 'Electrical Nightmare'
An OSHA inspection led to more than a dozen serious violations against Xpedited Services LLC.
An inspection by OSHA found that employees at Xpedited Services LLC faced a number of hazards day to day, such as tangled extension cords, overloaded power outlets in wet locations, blocked exits, faulty forklifts, machines without safety guards, and damaged floors.
The Jersey City, N.J.-based trucking company received 14 serious citations in association with permitting dangerous electrocution, fire, and other hazardous risks to exist. "Xpedited Services created an electrical nightmare for its workers, exposing warehouse employees to electrocution hazards and significant fire risk. It was unacceptable that the company failed to comply with long-standing federal electrical safety standards and local building codes," said Kris Hoffman, director of OSHA's Parsippany Area Office.
OSHA reported that investigators found the company used flexible cords and temporary wiring to power hand-held tools and the warehouse, which created electrocution and fire hazards. Cords were also used in wet areas without damage protection and were not inspected regularly. In addition to the electrical and fire hazards, Xpedited Services was cited for lacking mechanical safety devices; allowing exit routes to be blocked in two locations; operating damaged forklifts; improperly storing propane bottles; and having open holes in warehouse floors. Employees also lacked forklift or fire extinguisher training.