Washington Amazon Center Fined for Unsafe Work Practices -- Occupational Health & Safety

Washington Amazon Center Fined for Unsafe Work Practices

Amazon finds itself in the middle of controversy after being fined for unsafe work practices

By Alex Saurman
Mar 24, 2022

An Amazon fulfillment center in Washington State is facing a willful violation of putting their workers at risk of injury.

According to a press release, the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) found that Amazon workers are required to perform repetitive and physically-demanding tasks at a fast pace, putting them at risk for back, shoulder, wrist, and knee injuries.

The Kent, Wash. fulfillment center is facing a $60,000 fine. This violation was deemed willful since three other Amazon centers in the state are facing similar violations.

Amazon is required to create an abatement plan within 60 days to resolve the issues. Amazon can appeal within 15 working days.

About the Author

Alex Saurman is a former Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety,who has since joined OH&S’s client services team. She continues to work closely with OH&S’s editorial team and contributes to the magazine.

Product Showcase

Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker WBGT Monitoring for Workplace Safety

Ensure safety with the Kestrel® 5400 Heat Stress Tracker, the go-to choice for safety professionals and endorsed by the Heat Safety & Performance Coalition. This robust, waterless WBGT meter is ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, offering advanced monitoring and data logging essential for OSHA compliance. It features pre-programmed ACGIH guidelines and alert settings to quickly signal critical conditions. Integrated with the cloud-based Ambient Weather Network, the 5400 allows managers to view, track, and log job site conditions remotely, ensuring constant awareness of potential hazards. Its capability for real-time mobile alerts and remote data access promotes proactive safety management and workplace protection, solidifying its role as a crucial tool in industrial hygiene. Read More
HAZ LO HEADLAMPS

With alkaline or rechargeable options, these safety rated, Class 1, Div. 1 Headlamps provide long runtime with both spot and flood options in the same light. Work safely and avoid trip hazards with flexible hands-free lighting from Streamlight. Read More
NoiseCHEK Personal Noise Dosimeter

SKC NoiseCHEK is the easiest-to-use dosimeter available! Designed specifically for OEHS professionals, SKC NoiseCHEK offers the easiest operation and accurate noise measurements. Everything you need is right in your palm. Pair Bluetooth models to your mobile devices and monitor workers remotely with the SmartWave dB app without interrupting workflow. Careful design features like a locking windscreen, sturdy clip, large front-lit display, bright status LEDs, and more make NoiseCHEK the top choice in noise dosimeters. Demo NoiseCHEK at AIHA Connect Booth 1003. Read More