Danvers, Framingham Target Stores Cited For Blocked Exits

DANVERS, MA — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration said Target is facing $227,304 in fines after inspectors found blocked exits at its stores in Framingham. In both cases, inspectors found emergency exits in backrooms blocked by packing boxes, products, rolling carts, metal bars, portable ladders, and a powered industrial truck. It was the 11th time since 2015 OSHA has cited Target for similar infractions at stores in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Jersey and New York.

"OSHA has cited Target Corp. several times for exposing workers to hazards that restrict their ability to quickly exit a store in an emergency," said OSHA Andover Area Director Anthony Covello. "Employers are required to keep exit routes free and unobstructed."

Target has 15 days to respond to and contest OSHA's findings. Additional information about OSHA requirements for keeping exits clear is available in the agency’s Emergency Exit Routes fact sheet. OSHA’s Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs includes information on how to identify and assess hazards in the workplace.