TUMWATER — Fox Lumber Sales, a Spokane Valley sawmill, has been cited by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) for 61 safety and health violations, resulting in more than $126,000 in fines. L&I inspectors reported sawdust accumulations up to five inches deep across the facility, far exceeding the allowable 1/8 inch limit. The accumulation of combustible sawdust, combined with space heaters placed on top of it, presented significant fire hazards.
Fox Lumber, which has experienced two fires since opening in January 2024, manufactures pallet parts and wood stakes from leftover wood. L&I’s inspection revealed repeated safety lapses, including unprotected machinery, fall hazards, and a lack of worker training. Assistant Director Craig Blackwood expressed frustration over the company’s repeated violations, citing that several of the issues were previously flagged during inspections three years ago…