RIVIAN AUTOMOTIVE INC

Rivian Automotive manufactures electric vehicles at its Normal, Illinois factory, a facility originally built by Mitsubishi Motors. In 2022, at least a dozen employees filed complaints alleging the company ignored known hazards and deprioritized safety resources. Workers reported being required to share respirators needed for tasks involving toxic fumes and particulates, indicating potential exposure to hazardous materials. The complaints, detailed in multiple November 2022 reports, describe a pattern of safety violations at the plant.

While Rivian publishes detailed impact reports and life cycle assessments for its vehicles, these internal documents focus on product carbon footprints. The employee complaints point to operational environmental and safety risks within its own manufacturing process, specifically the management of toxic substances and worker protection protocols. The allegations suggest a disconnect between the company’s public sustainability narrative and the on-the-ground environmental safety practices at its primary production facility.