The U.S. Department of Labor has fined Dollar Tree $254,478 after workplace safety inspectors visited one of the company’s stores in Mount Pleasant, Texas.
On September 7, 2022, merchandise was found blocking exits and aisles. Stacks of boxes “high enough to fall on workers,” were also found, inspectors noted.
Additionally, they discovered storeroom, service rooms, and passageways that were dirty.
“In the event of an emergency, workers and others must have fast and safe access to unblocked exit routes. Retailers like Dollar Tree that fail to make sure their stores’ storage areas are organized and safe are endangering everyone who works and shops there,” said a regional administrator for OSHA.
The Labor Department documented that Dollar Tree had shown a “pattern of disregard” for worker safety going back to 2017.
More than 300 violations in over 500 inspections at Dollar Tree and Family Dollar locations have been identified.
Dollar Tree Inc. has 15 days to pay the fines, ask to speak with OSHA, or appeal the findings.
