Chicago Workers' Compensation Attorney Blog

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration is warning retailers to do their part to avoid Chicago work accidents and injuries to customers and guests during Black Friday sales events and the upcoming holiday season.

The government work-safety watchdog has sent a letter to the CEOs of 14 of the nation's largest retailers, reminding them of the trampling death of an employee during a 2008 Black Friday sales event and warning them of their responsibility for the safety of employees and guests alike.

"Crowd-related injuries during special retail sales and promotional events have increased during recent years," said Assistant Secretary for OSHA Dr. David Michaels. "Many of these incidents can be prevented by adopting a crowd management plan, and this fact sheet provides retail employers with guidelines for avoiding injuries during the holiday shopping season."

With up to half of retail profits coming in the next six weeks, stores are pulling out all the stops to lure customers. HDTVs, iPads, e-Readers and other hot electronics top the shopping lists for many. Retailers frequently provide a limited quantity at below cost in an effort to attract large crowds to start the shopping season.

OSHA's safety plan for retailers includes trained security, barricades or rope lines for pedestrian safety and crowd control, and emergency plans to address potential dangers.

Tips for Emergency Situations:

-Do not block exit doors or traffic flow.

-Have a plan in advance for calling and coordinating emergency response.

-Keep first aid kits and Automated External Defibrillators available.

-Have personnel trained in CPR and the use of AEDs.

-Instruct employees to follow the instructions of first responder, regardless of company rules.