e-Commerce Shipper Faces Serious OSHA Violation

For allegedly failing to address injury risks associated with repetitive motion injuries at the company’s fulfillment centers in Washington State, an e-commerce business was cited for a willful, serious violation of workplace safety standards and may face a $60,000 penalty.

Washington’s Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) cited the employer after noting that employees who handle packages are required to work at a fast pace, increasing their risk of injuries from motions like lifting, carrying, twisting, etc.  

According to a press release from the state safety agency, “the company has not yet made the necessary changes to improve workplace safety.”

To reduce the risk of injury from package handing, Washington L&I recommended actions like installing adjustable platforms, using powered equipment, and setting a safe pace of work.  

Motion injuries affect employees in a broad range of industries and job roles—from assembly workers in manufacturing plants to package handlers, retail employees, healthcare workers, drivers, meat cutters, and many others.

Under OSHA’s General Duty Clause (OSH Act, Section 5(a)(1)), employers are legally required to identify and address the health and safety hazards that are present in the workplace.  

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Tags: OSHA compliance, package handling, workplace safety