Fire Law Blog Fire Service and Public Safety Legal Issues Blog by Curt Varone
Federal OSHA has handed down fines totaling $431,517 against United Parcel Services for repeated fire code violations at their Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts facility. The citations issued last week involved for four repeated and seven serious safety violations.
According to an OSHA press release: “OSHA inspectors found several violations affecting employees’ ability to evacuate safely in the event of a fire or other emergency. The Agency cited the company for obstructed and inadequate exit routes, lack of proper exit signage, failure to update the facility’s emergency action plan, poor housekeeping, lack of stair rails and improper use of energized electrical cords.”
The press release quoted OSHA officials as saying:
- “Employers must continually evaluate their facilities for hazards, and develop comprehensive safety and health programs to adequately protect workers.”
- “The hazardous conditions at this UPS facility can impede a worker’s ability to promptly exit in an emergency, placing them at risk for serious or fatal injuries.”
- “Employers are required by law to provide workers with safe and healthful workplaces.”
