Dollar General Corp and Dolgencorp LLC have been fined once again for what OSHA states as “putting its workers’ safety at risk.”

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued $2.7 million in penalties after its latest inspections of stores in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

Numerous inspections uncovering several hazards resulted in more than $4 million in fines in 2022.

Many of the hazards of concern include:

• Failing to label, mount, or make fire extinguishers accessible.
• Storing boxes in front of electrical panels, increasing the risk of fire and electrical hazards.
• Failing to use exit signs to facilitate safe egress in the event of an emergency.
• Exposing workers to electrocution by not keeping unused openings in electrical cabinets closed.
• Not providing handrails on stairs where required.

According to OSHA, Dollar General Corp. and Dolgencorp LLC are now qualified for the Severe Violator Enforcement Program.

“Dollar General has shown a pattern of alarmingly willful disregard for federal safety standards, choosing to place profits over their employees’ safety and well-being,” said Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Doug Parker. “Neighborhood stores exist to support the needs of their communities – the same communities in which many Dollar General employees live – and that support must include following laws designed to keep workers safe from preventable injuries or worse.

The company has now been fined more than $12.7 million since 2017.