Drugstore chain Rite Aid has recently agreed to enhance employee safety by implementing a comprehensive Bloodborne Pathogen Program. This program will be in effect across all 370 Rite Aid stores in New Jersey and New York, safeguarding not only frontline customer service staff but all employees.
The decision to implement this program follows an investigation launched by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Buffalo office in April 2022. The investigation was initiated after a retail employee in Niagara Falls was instructed to clean up spilled blood following a customer injury that occurred in February 2022.
During the investigation, OSHA discovered that the employee had not received a hepatitis B vaccine prior to the incident and that Rite Aid did not have an appropriate exposure control plan, thereby violating federal regulations. As a result, OSHA issued citations to Rite Aid for violating the agency’s bloodborne pathogens standard.
Initially, Rite Aid contested these citations. However, in a settlement agreement with OSHA, the company has agreed to pay an amended fine of $10,000 and withdraw its notice of contest. It is important to note that Rite Aid has not admitted any wrongdoing but has taken necessary remedial actions in all its New Jersey and New York stores.
As part of these remedial actions, Rite Aid has implemented an exposure control plan specifically designed for retail employees who may come into contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials while at work. Additionally, the company will provide comprehensive training to these employees regarding bloodborne hazards and the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
To further prioritize employee well-being, Rite Aid will offer a hepatitis B vaccination at no cost to all retail employees who may be exposed to or required to handle blood or potentially infectious materials. These initiatives aim to create a safer work environment for Rite Aid employees and reduce the risk of bloodborne pathogen-related hazards.
Rite Aid Corp., headquartered in Philadelphia, operates over 2,300 retail pharmacies across 17 states. By implementing this comprehensive Bloodborne Pathogen Program, the company demonstrates its commitment to employee safety and adherence to federal regulations. This program not only protects employees but also establishes Rite Aid as an industry leader in prioritizing the well-being of its workforce.
In conclusion, Rite Aid’s decision to boost employee safety through the implementation of a comprehensive Bloodborne Pathogen Program is a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of its workforce. Through the provision of exposure control plans, employee training, and free hepatitis B vaccinations, Rite Aid aims to create a safer work environment for all its employees. This proactive approach highlights the company’s commitment to adhering to federal regulations and prioritizing the health and safety of its workforce.
