Family Dollar store cited after shoplifting-related fatality
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The Department of Labor has cited a Family Dollar Inc. store in Orlando, Florida, for willful and repeat safety violations in connection with a fatal shoplifting incident and proposed $330,446 in penalties.
On Dec. 11, 2021, shortly after struggling with a shoplifter in a failed effort to prevent that person’s escape with merchandise, a 41-year-old store employee experienced shortness of breath and nausea. The employee later died at a local hospital, according to a statement issued by the DOL on Friday.
Following an investigation of the incident, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited the company for entrapment hazards and issued a hazard alert letter for exposing employees to hazardous conditions associated with workplace violence.
OSHA urged the company to develop and train employees on proper procedures in case of a robbery or shoplifting incident, and to provide a means for workers to request immediate assistance from the local police department or an alarm company.
OSHA cited the national discount retailer for a willful violation for keeping an emergency exit door locked with a single key held by management. The agency also issued citations for two repeat violations for failing to keep an unobstructed pathway for workers to walk through, and for allowing aisles to remain obstructed by carts and merchandise boxes.
The company has 15 days to contest the citations.
