Dollar General Pays $12 Million Penalty as Severe Violator of Workplace Safety Laws

No one expects frills when they enter a dollar store. These retail outlets are based on the premise that some consumers are willing to trade fancy displays and wide aisles for low prices. Cost-cutting can go too far though, especially when it puts the health and safety of dollar store employees at risk.

Dollar General, one of the nation’s largest discount retailers, has agreed to pay a $12 million penalty to settle allegations of widespread workplace safety violations. The resolution with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is based on numerous specific problems identified at various locations over an extended period of time, such as:

  • Blocked exit routes — Many people associate dollar stores with crowded aisles and haphazardly placed merchandise. When boxes or other items impede walkways, it isn’t just an aesthetic concern, but a hazard that could be deadly if exit routes are blocked during a fire or other emergency. 

  • Unsafe storage practices — The temptation to use as much space as possible for selling means that boxes or loose items are often piled high, creating a risk that something will fall and strike an employee. 

  • Electrical and fire hazards — Getting to the store’s electrical panel or fire extinguisher could be the difference between a minor incident and a devastating tragedy. OSHA investigators found instances where employees were not able to access these critical items. 

Part of the reason for the $12 million penalty is that OSHA classified Dollar General as a severe violator of employee safety regulations, racking up more than 100 violations over a six-year period. 

In addition to the financial penalty, Dollar General has agreed to implement significant changes to its operations to improve safety conditions. These measures include hiring additional safety managers, reducing inventory levels, and providing enhanced safety training for employees. While these steps are essential, it remains to be seen whether Dollar General will fully commit to creating a safe and healthy work environment for its employees.

While the $12 million settlement is a step in the right direction, it is essential to remain vigilant and advocate for stronger workplace safety regulations. Whether you work for a discount retailer or a luxury brand, you are legally entitled to do your job in a workplace that complies with OSHA safety standards, as well as state and local regulations. If you believe that your employer is violating the rules, reach out to Kardell Law Group, where we can review the circumstances and advise you of your legal options.