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OSHA: Coca-Cola Repeatedly Fizzles Out When It Comes to Safety

Dec. 16, 2015
A Coca-Cola distribution warehouse in New Jersey was cited for six violations, a number of which related to blocked and unmarked exits.

OSHA cited a Coca-Cola distribution warehouse in New Jersey repeat and serious health and safety violations.

Coca-Cola Refreshments USA Inc.'s distribution warehouse in Monmouth Junction was cited for four repeat and two serious violations.

Repeat violations were obstructed exit routes, unmarked exits, a lack of illuminated emergency exit signs and improper storage of compressed gas cylinders.

The serious violations were unguarded floor holes and lack of refresher training on forklifts.

"Blocked exit routes and unmarked exits pose a serious danger to Coca-Cola's warehouse employees, as they prevent quick escape in case of an emergency," said Patricia Jones, director of OSHA's Avenel Office.

"Employers have a legal obligation to ensure workers have a safe and healthy workplace, and will be held accountable when they fail to do so."

OSHA proposed fines of $61,600 for the violations.

Coca-Cola Refreshments USA Inc. manufactures and distributes Coca-Cola brand products at facilities across the United States.

About the Author

Ginger Christ | Associate Editor

Ginger Christ is an associate editor for EHS Today, a Penton publication.

She has covered business news for the past seven years, working at daily and weekly newspapers and magazines in Ohio, including the Dayton Business Journal and Crain’s Cleveland Business.

Most recently, she covered transportation and leadership for IndustryWeek, a sister publication to EHS Today.

She holds a bachelor of arts in English and in Film Studies from the University of Pittsburgh.

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