What Are OSHA’s Top Safety Violations?

Posted on November 24, 2021 in Construction Accidents,Workplace Injury

Employees deserve safe workplaces. In an effort to increase workplace safety, both the state and federal governments step in to enforce safety standards. The top regulator for workplace safety is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Here, we want to examine OSHA’s top safety violations because we think this list will give you a good idea of what to look out for in your workplace and areas where you may be able to help improve workplace safety.

What Are OSHA's Top Safety Violations?

What the Data Shows About OSHA Violations

When we look at information provided by the National Safety Council (NSC), we can see a complete list of the 10 most frequently cited safety violations handed down by OSHA during the latest fiscal year (2021).

  • Fall Protection – 5,295 violations
  • Respiratory Protection – 2,527
  • Ladders – 2,026
  • Scaffolding – 1,948
  • Hazard Communication – 1,947
  • Lockout/Tagout (1910.147): 1,698
  • Fall Protection – 1,666
  • Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment – Eye and Face Protection – 1,452
  • Powered Industrial Trucks – 1,420
  • Machine Guarding – 1,113

We do want to note that “fall protection” has topped OSHA’s safety violation list for 11 years in a row now. In a bit of good news, “hazard communication” moved from second place on the list down to fifth place in just a one-year time frame (from fiscal year 2020 to fiscal year 2021).

“Throughout the pandemic, workplace safety has become more important than ever,” says Lorraine Martin, NSC president. “Although incredible advancements are made in safety each year, the OSHA Top 10 list reminds us that we must continue to pinpoint areas where we can improve so we can better prioritize workplace safety in the future world of work.”

Workplace Injuries Are Largely Preventable

Information provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that there were approximately 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries or illnesses reported across the country during the latest year of data available. In general, we can look at safety violations and injuries that occur and determine that most workplace injuries are preventable, which is why OSHA and state safety regulators work so diligently to enforce job site safety standards.

Unfortunately, some of the most common injuries that occur in the workplace include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Concussions
  • Lacerations
  • Broken or dislocated bones
  • Sprains or strains
  • Whiplash injuries
  • Spinal cord trauma

The Impact of OSHA Violations on Workplace Safety

The Impact of OSHA Violations on Workplace Safety

OSHA violations directly contribute to workplace injuries and fatalities, making compliance a critical focus for every industry. When employers fail to address safety hazards, workers are often exposed to preventable risks that could result in serious harm.

Cost of Non-Compliance for Employers

Failing to comply with OSHA regulations can result in significant financial and operational consequences for employers. OSHA penalties for violations often include steep fines, which can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity and frequency of infractions. Beyond monetary penalties, non-compliance can also lead to increased insurance premiums and costly legal disputes.

Reputational damage is another major consequence, as safety violations can erode trust with employees, clients, and the public. For example, repeated violations may signal to workers that their safety is not a priority, resulting in lower morale and higher turnover rates. By addressing hazards proactively, employers can avoid these costs.

Reporting Workplace Hazards

Identifying and reporting hazards is crucial to maintaining a safe workplace. Employees should document potential risks, such as exposed wiring or unstable equipment, and report them to their supervisor immediately. If hazards are not addressed, workers can file a complaint with OSHA to initiate an investigation and protect their rights. Below are actionable steps employees can take to report workplace hazards effectively:

  • Identify the hazard
  • Document the risk
  • Inform your employer
  • File a report with OSHA if necessary

Requesting Safety Training

Employees who feel unprepared to handle workplace hazards should not hesitate to request additional safety training. Proper training equips workers with the knowledge and skills to identify risks, use equipment correctly, and respond effectively in emergencies. By advocating for comprehensive safety programs, employees can play an integral part in creating a safer work environment for everyone.

Strategies for Employers to Reduce OSHA Violations

Employers have a responsibility to create safe work environments and reduce the risks of OSHA violations. Proactive measures, such as conducting regular safety audits and investing in employee training, can significantly lower the likelihood of accidents. These strategies not only protect workers but also support the long-term success of the business.

Regular Safety Audits

Conducting regular safety audits helps employers identify potential hazards and address them before they lead to violations or injuries. These audits should include comprehensive reviews of equipment, worksite conditions, and employee practices. Here are some practical steps for conducting effective safety audits:

  • Look for signs of wear, malfunctions, or outdated machinery that could pose risks.
  • Evaluate whether existing procedures are followed and identify areas for improvement.
  • Involve workers in the audit process to gain valuable insights and encourage participation.
  • Record hazards identified during the audit and prioritize corrective actions.
  • Regularly revisit previous audit findings to confirm that changes have been implemented.

Investing in Employee Training Programs

Providing employees with thorough and ongoing safety training is one of the most effective ways to reduce OSHA violations and prevent workplace injuries. Training programs help workers understand potential risks, follow proper procedures, and use equipment correctly.

For example, new hires should receive training on hazard identification and safe equipment operation during onboarding. Ongoing programs can address specific challenges, such as handling hazardous materials or operating powered industrial trucks. Employers who invest in training not only reduce the risk of violations but also demonstrate their commitment to protecting their employees.

Working With an Attorney After a Work Injury

If you or somebody you care about has sustained an on-the-job injury in Oregon but are having trouble recovering compensation, you need to speak to a Portland workplace injury attorney immediately. A skilled workplace injury lawyer can step in and handle difficult employers and workers’ compensation insurance carriers. An attorney will use their resources to fully investigate the cause of your workplace accident and handle all communication with other parties involved.

Under the workers’ compensation laws in Oregon, any person who sustains an on-the-job injury will likely be entitled to compensation for all their medical bills as well as a significant portion of their lost wages. Additionally, if the injury happened as a result of the negligence of a third party aside from the employer or a coworker, workers may be able to recover additional compensation through a civil personal injury lawsuit.