Florida Walmart Violates Corporate-Wide Safety Agreement: OSHA

OSHA says the global retailer failed to protect employees from serious hazards. Proposed penalties total $118,800.

According to OSHA, Walmart continues to endanger the safety and health of its employees, despite a corporate-wide settlement agreement with the agency. An OSHA Region 4 investigation into a Pensacola, Fla., Walmart discovered serious health violations, resulting in three repeated and two serious violations, the agency reported.

The repeated citations were issued due to the employer not providing Hepatitis B vaccinations to workers who were designated to clean up blood spills, not ensuring workers understood the symptoms and control measures for Hepatitis B, and failing to maintain unobstructed access to the disconnect box and panel for the baler and trash compactor. Proposed penalties total $118,800.

The serious citations were issued for failing to annually train blood spill cleanup workers, failing to provide employees with sufficient working space to avoid contact with live electrical wires, and failing to protect them from exposure to shock and burn hazards.

"The bloodborne pathogen and safe access violations were previously cited and also covered in the settlement agreement, yet employees are still being exposed to these hazards," said Brian Sturtecky, OSHA's area director in the Jacksonville Office. "It is very frustrating to see that these hazards continue to exist and is a clear indication management is not actively involved in the safety and health program."

Product Showcase

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without being recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Its durability enables the detector to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, hence earning it an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as the GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. Read More

  • Glove Guard® Clip

    Safety should never be compromised, especially when it comes to proper glove usage. The Glove Guard® clip enhances safety by encouraging employees to keep their gloves with them at all times. This reduces the risk of accidents and injuries on the job. By ensuring everyone has their gloves readily available, we help promote a culture of safety and efficiency. The Glove Guard® clip is designed to withstand the toughest work environments. Constructed from robust materials made in the USA, it can endure extreme conditions, including harsh weather, and rigorous activities. Read More

  • Safety Shower Test Cart

    The Safety Shower Test Cart speeds up and simplifies emergency shower tests, ensures you stay in compliance with OSHA regulations, and significantly reduces testing costs. With 7 unique features, the cart makes testing easy, effective, and efficient. You can test water clarity, flow, temperature, and spread—all at the same time! Most safety shower testing kits create a mess, take too much time to use, and don't fully help you stay in compliance with OSHA & ANSI standards. Transform the way you test emergency showers with Green Gobbler Safety. Read More

Featured

Artificial Intelligence

Webinars