Amazon warehouses seem to be popping up all over the United States. In some ways, this is a very positive development. It means more work for more people and it also means that customers will be more satisfied with purchasing items from Amazon. Unfortunately, there may be a dark side to working in these warehouses.
Recently, Amazon has come under the scrutiny of the federal government for allegedly unsafe and unseemly workplace conditions. Federal inspections began a few weeks ago in the New York area. One of the organizations that is involved is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
What did the OSHA inspection entail?
When the OSHA inspectors entered one Amazon facility, they were looking for potential work issues connected to the work pace of Amazon’s employees, in addition to other workplace hazards. In addition to workplace hazards, OSHA has also been tasked with investigating fraudulent behavior to mask injuries from anyone who performs an inspection.
Spokespeople for OSHA said the inspection was prompted by numerous allegations involving safety and health violations from various advocacy groups.
Workplace accidents are too common and can be tragic
When it comes to workplace accidents and hazardous conditions, it is important not to confuse workers’ compensation with personal injury. The workers’ compensation system in New York is a no-fault system, which means that you don’t have to prove that your employer actually did anything wrong in order for you to collect benefits.
On the other hand, there may be situations where an injured worker is able to collect benefits after filing a personal injury claim if they can prove that the employer or another party was negligent.
Valuable advice from a knowledgeable Brooklyn attorney
If you have been injured at work due to someone else’s negligence or you have lost a loved one for the same reason, a knowledgeable Brooklyn attorney can educate you and your family about your rights and options. They can also assist you in obtaining compensation for your injuries or the loss of a loved one.