Forever 21 Fined $236K for Repeat Violations, OSHA Says

Forever 21, a trendy clothing retailer, faces a proposed $236,500 in penalties from the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for exposing employees to safety hazards in their Paramus and Manhattan locations.

OSHA inspectors visited the Paramus location in July after receiving complaints alleging possible violations.

Inspectors cited Forever 21 for four repeat violations including obstructed exit routes; a fire extinguisher that was not mounted and readily accessible; stored material that was not secured against sliding or collapse; and fluorescent lights that had no cover to prevent accidental contact or breakage. 

“It’s unacceptable for Forever 21 to continue repeating these violations, which are common among retailers, and put workers at serious risk,” said Robert Kulick, OSHA’s regional administrator in New York. “Retail managers have a legal responsibility to inspect their stores, identify potential hazards and quickly eliminate them to ensure worker safety and health.”

Forever 21 has 15 business days to comply, meet formally with OSHA’s area director or contest the findings before an independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. According to CrainsNewYork.com, Forever 21 reportedly generated $3.7 billion in sales in 2013.