August 3, 2018
U.S. Department of Labor Cites Texas Dollar Tree Store
For Exposing Employees to Safety Hazards
DALLAS, TX – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Dollar Tree Stores Inc. for exposing workers to fire, smoke, and other hazards at a Dallas location. The national discount retailer faces $129,336 in proposed penalties.
OSHA inspected the store after receiving a referral from a whistleblower investigator claiming unsafe working conditions. OSHA cited the company for one willful violation for locking an emergency exit. In 2015, the Agency and the company reached a corporate-wide settlement agreement to address unsafe conditions found at numerous U.S. stores. This investigation addresses issues that fall outside the terms of the agreement.
“Locked emergency exits prevent quick evacuation in an emergency, needlessly placing employees at risk for serious harm,” said OSHA Dallas Area Director Basil Singh.
Dollar Tree 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. 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