OSHA Cites Pennsylvania Dollar Tree for Exit and Storage Hazard Violations
Dollar Tree Stores Inc. has received OSHA citations for exit and storage hazards and faces $296,861 in penalties.
After responding to a complaint, OSHA inspectors found blocked emergency exits, unsecured compressed gas cylinders, unsanitary bathrooms, electrical panels not properly maintained and materials stacked unsafely. Dollar Tree was cited for two willful, one repeat and two other-than-serious violations for these conditions.
“Workers have a right to a safe and healthful workplace,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Loren Sweatt. “OSHA will continue to ensure that Dollar Tree is held accountable for their obligations under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.”
This is not the only citation OSHA has given to Dollar Tree—actually, Dollar Tree Stores across the country have been cited for more than 200 safety and health violations since 2009.
OSHA’s Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs includes information on how to identify and assess hazards in the workplace. The Restrooms and Sanitation Requirements webpage explain requirements for ensuring that employees do not suffer adverse health effects from unsanitary bathroom conditions. The agency’s Emergency Exit Routes fact sheet provides information on requirements for keeping exits unobstructed.
Dollar Tree has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
To learn more, read the
OSHA news release.