CPSC Fitness Facilities Fall Short on Safety and Accessibility
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has faced criticism for failing to adhere to safety and accessibility regulations in its employee fitness facilities. A recent inspection revealed multiple violations, including insufficient floor space for wheelchair access and inadequate maintenance documentation.
The Office of Inspector General (OIG) examined three CPSC fitness facilities and uncovered several breaches of regulations set by the General Services Administration (GSA) and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Notably, one facility fell short of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirement, providing less than the mandated 30 inches by 48 inches of floor space for equal access.
CPSC officials were found to have produced only a single report on fitness equipment inspection, maintenance, and repair over a three-year period, raising concerns about equipment safety. Furthermore, cleaning contracts lacked provisions required by GSA for above-standard custodial services, and employees were not required to sign waivers or undergo pre-activity screenings before using the facilities. Contractors were also found to have accessed CPSC fitness centers, which is strictly prohibited by GSA regulations.
The OIG's report highlights significant gaps in CPSC's oversight of its employee fitness facilities. To ensure the safety and accessibility of these spaces, CPSC must address these violations promptly, including providing adequate floor space, implementing access control systems, and enforcing proper maintenance and usage procedures.
