An employer receives a written citation when it violates OSHA standards or regulations. The citation will describe the particular nature of the violation and will include a reference to the provision of the chapter, standard, rule, regulation or order the employer violated.
In addition, the citation will provide a reasonable amount of time for the employer to correct the problem. When the violation does not pose a direct or immediate threat to safety or health (de minimis violation), OSHA may issue a notice or warning instead of a citation.
Annual Adjustments
Current laws allow OSHA to adjust the maximum penalty amounts every year to account for the cost of inflation, as shown by the consumer price index (CPI). If OSHA plans to adjust penalty amounts, it must signal its intention by Jan. 15 of each year.
Links and Resources
OSHA Citations
- Citations must describe the particular nature of the violation.
- OSHA will provide a reasonable time to correct the problem.
- Citations must be posted at or near the location where the violation occurred and must remain on display until the violation is corrected.
2021 Penalties
- $13,653 per serious, other-than-serious and posting violation
- $13,653 per day for failure to abate a violation
- $134,532 per willful or repeated violation
Current Penalties
Below is a list of potential citations employers may receive and a range of corresponding penalties for these citations.
For help with other questions or business services contact Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors.
This Compliance Overview is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel for legal advice. ©2020-2021 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.
