U.S. Department of Labor Cites Dollar Tree Stores for Storage and Exit Hazards at Massachusetts Location

BRAINTREE, MA – The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Dollar Tree Stores Inc. for unsafe storage of material, obstructed exit routes and blocked electrical panels at the retailer's Falmouth, Massachusetts, store. The company faces $458,436 in penalties.

OSHA inspectors responded to a referral from the Falmouth Fire Department about possible fire hazards. Inspectors found cartons of merchandise unsafely stored above head height, blocking exit paths, creating a safety hazard during an emergency. OSHA also found merchandise stored too close to electrical panels, a potential fire hazard.  

OSHA cited Dollar Tree with four repeat citations.  

"Dollar Tree Stores Inc. has continued to expose employees to safety and health hazards," said Loren Sweatt, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health. "Improper storage of merchandise creates unnecessary hazards for employees, while blocked exit routes place employees and customers at risk."

OSHA's Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs includes information on how to identify and assess hazards in the workplace.

The company has contested the findings to the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to help ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.

The mission of the Department of Labor is to foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.