Every year, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes a list of the most cited violations. Though there is usually not much change in the rankings from year to year, the statistics that accompany the list are revealing. OSHA encourages employers and employees alike to take note of these violations to make sure the listed offenses are not being committed in their own workplace.
This list is a combination of both “serious” and “willful” violations. Serious violations are those in which serious physical harm, including death, could occur, and the employer should have known about the hazard. Willful violations are ones committed with disregard to rules set out by OSHA.
- Fall Protection – General Requirements: Certain systems must be in place to prevent falls by workers. When they are not properly working, it falls into this category. (6,906 violations)
- Hazard Communication: There should be proper signage and other forms of communication when hazardous chemicals are in the workplace. (5,665 violations)
- Scaffolding: There are general safety requirements for scaffolding, including who is qualified to be on it, its construction and preventing falling object injuries. (3,900 violations)
- Respiratory Protection: There are criteria for program administration, respirator selection, training, maintenance/repair and more that must be followed. (3,573 violations)
- Lockout/Tagout: When heavy machinery and equipment is being serviced, certain procedures must be followed to prevent electrocution and other injuries. (3,406 violations)
From 2015 to 2016, the number of incidents for each of these violations decreased, except for lockout/tagout. Overall, workplaces are getting safer across the nation, leading to fewer injuries and deaths. However, injuries can and will still happen. If you are injured on the job in South Carolina, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. If your claim is denied, contact Christmas Injury Lawyers today to learn more about your legal options. Your initial consultation is free.
