OSHA Inspection: UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE

Issued

Jan 10, 2024

Abate by

Feb 6, 2024

Penalty

Initial $14,609 · Current $14,609

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act: The employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees, in that employees were not protected from the hazard of high heat while performing jobs duties:  a) U.S. Postal Service, Route 81-101: On or about July 15, 2023, employees were exposed to the hazard of high heat from direct sun during the performance of their job duties, including the delivery of mail during a five-hour shift.  An employee was exposed to the extreme heat and developed signs and symptoms of heat related illness. The outdoor temperature at the time of the incident was 112 degrees Fahrenheit, and the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature effective value was 85 degrees Fahrenheit under clear skies, while wearing a uniform shirt and long pants. An excessive heat warning was in effect that day for the Las Vegas, Nevada area. Such exposures are likely to lead to the development of serious heat-related illnesses such as, but not limited to, heat cramps, heat stress, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and death.   An employee was exposed to the heat-related hazards and sustained a heat related illness resulting in hospitalization.