Retailers who have been deemed ‘high-risk’ should brace themselves for an expected boost in inspections by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), particularly those with major warehouse, processing, and distribution facilities.
As indicated in an article by Jackson Lewis P.C., these facilities, which are a critical part of many supply chains – especially for retailers primarily relied on e-commerce, are on the rise and show no signs of slowing down.
These facilities provide the necessary space for inventory storage and play a crucial role in facilitating order fulfillments. Over the past decade, utilization of these facilities has been on a consistent upward trend. Statistics show that there are more than 1.9 million people currently employed in warehouse, processing, and distribution facilities.
Given the significant role these facilities play in many retailers’ operations and the substantial workforce they employ, maintaining a safe and healthy work environment is of utmost importance. As such, OSHA’s heightened interest in these facilities is not surprising, as the agency routinely prioritizes workplace safety and health.
This development indicates a need for these ‘high-risk’ retailers to review their current safety practices, ensure compliance with OSHA standards, and prepare for potential OSHA inspections. Any needed improvements in safety policies or procedures should be promptly addressed to avoid potential penalties and ensure a safe and healthy environment for their employees.