The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is the federal agency charged with preventing workplace illness and accidents throughout the nation, including the state of Pennsylvania. Accordingly, in addition to performing random workplace inspections, it is also often on the scene when workers are injured or get sick as a result of something in the workplace environment.

It recently announced an investigation into a Trader Joe's warehouse in Pennsylvania that was the site of multiple worker illnesses. Apparently 18 of the 197 individuals employed at the location became sick due to carbon monoxide poisoning last month. A fire truck responded to an automatic fire alarm and evacuated everyone. It was then that a leak was discovered and some of the workers reported not feeling well.

Several hours after the fire department arrived workers were allowed to return to work at the warehouse and fortunately, the people who reported feeling ill are expected to be okay.

In situations where workers are injured and face a longer period of recovery, it is not uncommon for a workers' compensation claim to be filed. Claims that are accepted can result in financial benefits to the injured worker.

Depending on the results of OSHA's investigation, it is possible that Trader Joe's could face a financial penalty. If violations are found, depending on the severity, fines could be levied. The agency was on the scene of the leak the same day it was reported and expects the investigation into the incident to last approximately six months. We will post updates on the matter as they become available.

Source: The Express -Times, "OSHA launching full investigation into Trader Joe's carbon monoxide leak, director confirms," Sarah M. Wojcik, Sept.25, 2012