Amazon’s San Bernardino Air Hub Cited for Worker Safety Violations Amid Extreme Heat
Amazon’s regional air freight hub in San Bernardino, California, has come under scrutiny after being cited three times by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) for endangering workers during scorching summer temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. The citations stem from complaints filed by members of the Inland Empire Amazon Workers United.
The investigations, carried out between July 28, 2023, and January 19, 2024, revealed allegations of inadequate shade and rest facilities for employees toiling in the sweltering heat. One specific incident highlighted workers seeking shelter under the shadow of a Boeing 767-300 without any seating, forcing them to remain standing during their breaks. Other complaints mentioned a lack of a sufficient van for recovery periods, leaving workers unable to sit fully in the shade.
Amazon has responded to these claims, disputing the allegations and asserting that their heat-related safety protocols go above and beyond industry standards. The company highlighted various measures that it has implemented to combat the heat, such as air conditioning in all fulfillment centers and air hubs, fans, portable misters, cooling towels, ice pallets, and water coolers.
However, despite Amazon’s efforts, employees have reported suffering from serious heat-related illnesses and criticized the company’s inadequate measures to cool down. Workers provided documentation showing significantly higher internal and external temperatures than those reported by Amazon, underscoring the severity of the conditions.
The total penalties from Cal/OSHA’s citations amount to $14,625, further emphasizing the need for improved training to prevent heat-related illnesses, reminders for adequate water intake, and the provision of sufficient shade for outdoor workers.
Located at the former Norton Air Force Base, Amazon’s San Bernardino air hub handles around 14 daily flights, managing prepackaged merchandise from all across the Amazon network. This facility has been a focal point for heat-related complaints since September 2022, with employees expressing dissatisfaction towards the company’s efforts to create a safe working environment during hot summer months.
These incidents shed light on a broader issue within warehouse and fulfillment centers, particularly in Southern California, where heat-related complaints are common but not consistently addressed.
Analyst comment
Negative news. The market may initially react negatively to the news as it raises concerns about worker safety and potential negative publicity for Amazon. However, if Amazon takes immediate action to address the safety concerns and improve working conditions, the impact on the market may be limited. Monitoring Amazon’s response and future actions will be crucial.
