Grocer fined $80,000 for safety violations involving young workers

The 33-store Superior Grocers supermarket chain in California has been fined $80,000 for safety violations in its stores.

The Los Angeles Times said the company was fined “for allowing 16- and 17-year-old employees to operate heavy machinery in violation of child labor laws.” The heavy machinery referred to is “scrap-paper balers, paper box compactors, power-driven hoists and forklifts.”

This story is an important reminder for Worker Reps on their Health & Safety Committees to make sure that all workers, and particularly young workers, are given proper training.

Statistics consistently show that young workers are far more likely to be killed and injured on the job, and WorkSafe BC regulations require employers to ensure young and/or new workers are given training and orientation about safety and health issues in their workplace.

Part of that training includes reviewing a Health & Safety checklist designed specifically for new workers bv WorkSafe BC, and adapted by UFCW 1518 for our members.

To access and download printable versions of the checklist, click on the link below.