Metro-East News

Here’s what a state lawmaker says about OSHA’s probe into Edwardsville warehouse collapse

Rep. Katie Stuart is pictured in this Feb. 6, 2019 file photo.
Rep. Katie Stuart is pictured in this Feb. 6, 2019 file photo. Capitol News Illinois photo by Peter Hancock

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Tornado hits Amazon warehouse in Edwardsville. Six people killed

Here’s coverage of the aftermath storms that struck the metro-east in December 2021

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State Rep. Katie Stuart, a Democrat from Edwardsville, released the following statement about the Occupational Safety and Health Agency, or OSHA, investigation into the Amazon warehouse collapse during a tornado Friday.

“I am pleased to hear that OSHA will be investigating the safety practices at the Amazon facility in Edwardsville. I urge OSHA to conduct a timely and thorough investigation of the facility, including a complete audit of the building codes, building materials and code enforcement in the facility. This information will not only help families and workers get answers about Friday’s tragedy, but it will also help inform how we can reform our codes and policies around warehouse safety to help prevent tragedies like this in the future. While storms can be unpredictable, we need to do everything we can to protect people who may find themselves stuck at work during severe weather. Thank you to OSHA for acting quickly on this matter. Our community looks forward to receiving answers.”

OSHA has six months to complete its investigation, which will look into whether there were violations of workplace safety or health regulations. The agency could issue citations or propose monetary penalties, if violations are found.

Amazon said managers implemented emergency response procedures when the tornado warning began.

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Tornado hits Amazon warehouse in Edwardsville. Six people killed

Here’s coverage of the aftermath storms that struck the metro-east in December 2021