In a recent report from the U.S. Department of Labor, Wayne’s Supermarket in West Virginia has been cited for safety hazards in its grocery store in Mullens. A September investigation began as the result of a complaint, and resulted in $32,200 in proposed fines.
The serious violations, (ten in all), were:
- Electrical hazards;
- Failure to mark exit routes appropriately,
- Ensure workers’ wore cut-resistant gloves when cutting meat;
- Conduct a hazard assessment to determine the need for personal protective equipment; furnish training on use of P.P.E.;
- Proper training on operating powered industrial trucks;
- Provide material safety data for each hazardous material onsite;
- Provide an eyewash station or ensure workers usage of eye protection when handling corrosive materials;
- Train workers exposed to hazardous materials onsite, and complete a written hazard communication program;
- Ensure guarding on the unused portion of the blade on the meat cutting bandsaw;
- Ensure proper usage of hand tools during meat cutting operations.
Five other-than-serious violations, with a $1,400 penalty, include failing to maintain OSHA 300 injury and illness logs as well as guard overhead lights from physical damage.
OSHA states that grocery store employers are well aware of potential safety hazards facing workers while conducting day-to-day operations. Employers that fail to identify and correct hazards that could jeopardize worker safety will be held legally responsible.
When citations are handed out, it serves as a reminder to all of us; to be sure our place of employment is a safe one. Because of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. To obtain compliance assistance, ask questions, file a complaint, or report workplace hospitalizations, fatalities or situations that pose imminent danger to workers, the public should call OSHA’s toll-free hotline at 800-321-6742 (OSHA). For more information, visit http://www.osha.gov.