Amazon has issued a response to Senator Bernie Sanders' assertions regarding its workplace safety practices. The company claims that Sanders has misrepresented its safety record and emphasizes its commitment to enhancing employee conditions.
According to Amazon, Sanders' report on workplace safety relies on outdated and selective information, resulting in an inaccurate portrayal of the company's practices. The company points to a 28% reduction in recordable incidents and a 75% reduction in lost-time incidents from 2019 to 2023. This progress was reportedly achieved alongside increased demand and organizational growth. Amazon attributes these improvements to advancements in network design, safety policies, and ergonomic enhancements such as adjustable-height workstations, self-adjusting carts, and algorithms designed to optimize workflows and reduce strain.
The company disputes claims of unsafe practices by citing judicial rulings that have dismissed allegations of hazardous work conditions while endorsing its robust safety programs. It explains that it benchmarks its injury rates against Bureau of Labor Statistics data for similar-sized employers, asserting that its rates are below industry averages, particularly in transportation categories. Amazon also highlights that its climate-controlled facilities and heat mitigation measures exceed state and federal guidelines, with employees encouraged to take breaks as needed.
Amazon reports having invested over $1 billion in safety measures since 2019, with an additional $750 million planned for 2024. The company credits technologies like ergonomic solutions and vehicle safety controls for these improvements.
Amazon offers a wide range of services including online and in-person shopping, delivery of fresh produce, media distribution, devices like Alexa and Fire TV, cloud solutions through Amazon Web Services (AWS), logistics operations, customer service, and entertainment through platforms such as Amazon Originals, Prime Video, and Audible.