Retail store cited for widespread storage violations
OSHA recently cited a retail store at four Idaho locations for exposing employees to unsafe storage of merchandise, and blocked walkways and exit routes. The company faces nearly $900,000 in proposed penalties.
OSHA inspectors initially responded to a complaint alleging that the store in Boise was exposing employees to unstable stacks and piles of boxes in the store's stockroom. Soon after, OSHA received another complaint alleging similarly unsafe conditions at three other locations.
At all four stores, inspectors found boxes stacked improperly, often with heavier boxes on top of lighter ones, and blocked aisles and exit routes. In one store, inspectors found an employee who suffered injury and needed help after boxes fell on them. While an inspector shot video of conditions during another inspection, a stack of boxes fell and nearly injured an employee. During their investigation, inspectors learned that falling boxes had injured other employees.
OSHA cited the retailer for violations related to blocked aisles and exit routes, unsafe storage and stacking of boxes, blocked electrical panels, improper use of a ladder, and exposing workers to falls from heights.
The company 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 (OSHRC).