Amazon Prime Day ‘major cause of injuries’ for workers, Senate finds

An investigation by the US Senate has found that Amazon’s Prime Day and holiday season are particularly hazardous for warehouse workers, with a marked increase in injuries during these peak periods. The report, released by Sen. Bernie Sanders, highlights the unsafe conditions in Amazon warehouses, driven by the high volume of work and intense pressure to meet demands. During Prime Day 2019, the rate of recordable injuries exceeded 10 per 100 workers, over twice the industry average, with a total injury rate just under 45 per 100 workers. Despite Amazon’s significant revenues, the Senate report criticizes the company for not doing enough to ensure worker safety. Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel stated that the company has reduced its incident rate by 28% since 2019 and disputed the injury rate cited in the report. Nonetheless, workers have described the exhausting conditions in Amazon’s warehouses, exacerbated by the company’s rigorous tracking and high expectations. Prime Day, held annually in July, significantly boosts Amazon’s sales but at a considerable cost to worker safety.

Source: CNN