Publix Challenges OSHA Fines Over Florida Violations

Publix Super Markets Inc. says it will challenge a $34,500 fine imposed on it by OSHA in connection with a fatal forlift accident June 13 at its Boynton Beach, Florida, distribution center. OSHA investigators said the Publix employee, Pierre Fritz Marcelin, 56, of West Palm Beach, was operating a narrow-aisle reach truck “a speed that would not permit it to stop in a safe manner” just before he was killed. The company was cited for failing to follow specific energy control procedures in accordance with the manufacturer’s developed guidelines.