Washington state’s updated warehouse safety and worker protection laws are beginning to make waves. For the first time since the legislation took effect in July 2024, the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) has issued fines for violations—targeting Safeway’s distribution center in Auburn.
The enforcement marks a significant milestone in L&I’s efforts to ensure compliance with the law, which was crafted to shield warehouse employees from unrealistic or unsafe productivity quotas.
Tracking Every Minute
During a recent investigation, L&I inspectors found that Safeway’s Auburn facility was closely monitoring workers’ activities—including restroom use, scheduled breaks, and movement—down to the minute. This surveillance, officials say, was being used to enforce rigid and shifting production quotas that could interfere with legally protected break times.
“Quotas must never come at the expense of a worker’s health or legal rights,” L&I stated in a release.
The warehouse safety law that went into effect last year mandates that companies clearly communicate productivity expectations to employees. Any changes to quotas must also be transparently updated. Crucially, quotas must not impede a worker’s ability to take required breaks for rest, meals, and bathroom use—including adequate travel time within the facility.
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Why the Law Matters
The legislation was introduced in response to growing concerns about high-pressure work environments in large warehouses. With giants like Amazon, Walmart, and Safeway relying on aggressive fulfillment targets, worker advocacy groups pushed for guardrails to prevent burnout, injury, and unfair labor practices.
Under the new law, employees cannot be punished for failing to meet a quota if it was not explicitly communicated. This provision is meant to ensure that expectations are realistic, legal, and not arbitrarily enforced.
Fines and Fallout
L&I levied two separate fines against Safeway totaling $26,000. The company has filed an appeal, but the case has drawn attention to how the law is being interpreted and enforced.
L&I has confirmed that inspections are ongoing at other major distribution centers across Washington, including those operated by Amazon and Walmart.
