WASHINGTON–As the holiday season approaches, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration is encouraging retail employers to implement safety measures to prevent workplace injuries during major sales events, including Black Friday.
OSHA says tragic consequences and risk to workers can occur if the proper safety procedures are ignored. In 2008, a retail worker was trampled to death when shoppers rushed through the store to take advantage of holiday sales.
“During the hectic shopping season, retail workers should not be put at risk of injury or death,” said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. “OSHA urges retailers to take the time to adopt a crowd management plan and follow a few simple guidelines to prevent unnecessary harm to retail employees.”
OSHA sent letters to major retailers to remind employers about the potential hazards involved with managing large crowds at retail stores during the holiday season when sales events attract a higher number of shoppers.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees.
