OSHA Cites Texas Dollar Tree Stores for Putting Employees at Risk
The citation adds to penalties facing the retail chain across the nation.
According to a news release from the U.S. Department of Labor, Dollar Tree Stores Inc. has been cited by OSHA for willfully and repeatedly exposing workers to serious hazards at its store in Watauga, Texas. Dollar Tree Stores across the country have been cited for more than 200 safety and health violations since 2009. Penalties for the latest inspection are $262,500.
"In the past five months, OSHA has issued more than $800,000 in fines to Dollar Tree Stores for the same or similar violations," said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "This latest incident yet again demonstrates the company's deliberate and ongoing refusal to effectively address hazards that have been cited multiple times at their stores across the country. OSHA will not tolerate such blatant disregard for worker safety."
Two willful violations were cited at the Watauga store for failing to ensure exit doors were kept clear and unobstructed and that products were stored in a stable and secure manner. Four repeat violations were cited for failing to keep passageways clean and clear and to secure compressed gas cylinders and prevent blocking of portable fire extinguishers and electrical panels.
OSHA reported it has received complaints from Dollar Tree Store employees in 26 states since 2009 and has cited the company for 234 safety violations during that time.