OSHA says alleged fall hazards could cost Adidas in New York nearly $400,000

Federal workplace safety officials say Adidas America Inc. — the maker of one of the world’s best-selling sneakers — faces nearly $400,000 in penalties for continuing to ignore federal workplace safety standards.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) claims that after receiving subpoenas requiring it to correct existing fall hazards at its warehouse in Chester, New York and paying $17,403 in penalties, Adidas America Inc. could be subject to additional penalties of $396,377 for ignoring. workplace safety standards for employees working on top of a mezzanine.

OSHA said it conducted a follow-up inspection in January 2024 at the facility after Adidas failed to provide evidence that it installed required handrails or equivalent protection for employees accessing and working at the top of a mezzanine and ensured that a ladder used for access on the mezzanine is extended. at least three feet above the landing.

OSHA cited the company in March 2022 after its initial inspection in 2021 found that the absence of handrails and an unsafe ladder exposed Adidas employees to falls of up to 10 feet to the floor below. Inspectors returned in 2024 to find that the company had not corrected its violations.

“When employers agree to correct a hazard, they must follow through and demonstrate to OSHA that the hazards have been addressed,” said OSHA Area Director Rita Young in Albany, New York.

Adidas America Inc. has 15 business days to comply, request an informal conference, or challenge the findings before OSHA’s independent review panel.

Adidas America Inc. is a subsidiary of Adidas AG, an athletic apparel and footwear corporation headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany.

TOPICS
New York Workers’ Compensation