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What Are the Four Different Kinds of OSHA Violations?

  • Willful violations occur when employers knowingly ignore OSHA requirements.
  • Serious violations involve workplace hazards that could cause serious injury or fatality.
  • Repeated violations are cited when OSHA has previously found a workplace to commit the same violation.
  • Other-than-serious conditions are those with the potential to compromise workplace health and safety but do not cause likely risk of serious accidents or injuries.

Most Common OSHA Violations

Industrial accidents make up the majority of OSHA violations. When industrial safety regulations aren’t observed, serious injuries or fatal accidents can result. The most common OSHA workplace safety violations include:

Fall protection: Protection against slip-and-falls in the workplace must be provided in the construction industry for employees working at elevations six feet or higher. OSHA also requires fall protection for workers completing tasks above dangerous machinery, regardless of their elevation.

Scaffolding: OSHA requirements for scaffolding emphasize safety guidelines for fall protection, structural stability, weight capacity, and more.

Ladders: Under OSHA rules, all ladders used in the workplace should be capable of supporting a certain weight. OSHA also enforces rules regarding safe design of ladder rungs, cleats, and steps.

Machine guarding: Any moving machine part with potential danger to workers must be enclosed by a cover, shield, or railing. These measures are intended to protect workers from injuries such as crushed hands, amputations, burns, or blindness.

Worksite trucks, tractors, and forklifts: Powered industrial machinery like worksite trucks, tractors, forklifts, or any other truck with an electric motor or internal combustion engine is required to meet OSHA guidelines. These workplace vehicles must have fire protection and comply with design and maintenance safety measures.

Emery | Reddy Can Help You with Your OSHA Violation Claim

If you have tried to work things out with your employer and nothing has been done, then it’s time to consult with an experienced Washington state Employment and Labor Law attorney. Employment and Labor Law is complicated and can be overwhelming for anyone not familiar with it. Trying to hold a company accountable for bad business practices requires a skilled attorney to navigate the different laws and tactics an employer may use.

Emery | Reddy has over eight decades of experience in Employment and Labor Law and an unmatched record of helping Washington state workers get the justice they deserve in labor violations. Call for a Free Case Review with an experienced Intake Specialist and learn how we may able to help. No fee unless we recover for you.

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