2022 OSHA Penalty Amounts
The Department of Labor (DOL) recently released its 2022 inflation-adjusted civil monetary penalties that may be assessed on employers for violations of a wide range of federal laws, including the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act). The increased amounts apply to civil penalties assessed on or after Jan. 15, 2022. Here’s an outline of the adjusted penalties based on violation type for 2022:
- Posting requirement violation—The penalty amount for this violation is now up to $14,502 per violation. This amount increased from up to $13,653 per violation in 2021.
- Other-than-serious violation—Similar to the previous violation, the penalty amount for this violation is also now up to $14,502 per violation. This amount increased from up to $13,653 per violation in 2021.
- Serious violation—Mirroring the previous violation types, the penalty amount for this violation is also now up to $14,502 per violation. This amount increased from up to $13,653 per violation in 2021.
- Willful violation—The penalty amount for this violation is now between $10,360 and $145,027 per violation. This amount increased from between $9,753 and $136,532 per violation in 2021.
- Uncorrected violation—The penalty amount for this violation is now up to $14,502 per day until the violation is corrected. This amount increased from up to $13,563 per day until correction in 2021.
Amid these changes, it’s important for employers to become familiar with the new penalty amounts and review the effectiveness of their current workplace health and safety protocols, making adjustments as needed. In doing so, employers can prevent potential violations (as well as their associated costs), promote a safe work environment and ensure compliance with federal requirements.
The Importance of Participating in the National Safety Stand-down to Prevent Falls in Construction
Falls from elevation consistently reign as one of the top causes of fatalities in the construction industry. Yet, by educating employees on fall risks and implementing adequate job site precautions, employers help protect staff from fall-related incidents and limit the potential for injuries or fatalities. With this in mind, it’s crucial for construction employers to participate in the upcoming National Safety Stand-down to Prevent Falls in Construction.
This annual, week-long campaign—which is put together by OSHA and takes place May 2-6 this year—encourages construction employers across the country to take the time to discuss fall hazards and reinforce the importance of practicing preventive measures with their workforces. Here are some FAQs regarding the campaign:
What is a safety stand-down?
A safety stand-down is a voluntary event that allows employers to talk directly to their employees about safety. Specifically, the National Safety Stand-down is intended to foster workplace discussions regarding fall prevention. Organizations of all sizes can conduct a safety stand-down by:
- Hosting a toolbox talk on job-specific fall hazards
- Sharing a presentation on inspection and maintenance protocols for fall protection equipment
- Scheduling several training sessions during the week to discuss organizational policies and programs for fall prevention
In addition to conducting their own activities, employers can also join larger stand-down events in their respective communities.
Do employers need to sign up for the National Safety Stand-down?
No. This campaign is free and does not require registration. To participate, employers simply need to engage in a stand-down activity or attend a larger event with their employees. From there, employers can go to OSHA’s National Safety Stand-down website to share feedback on their stand-down experiences as well as download a certificate of participation for their involvement.
Why should employers participate in this campaign if they have already done so in past years?
Annual participation is vital for employers to demonstrate their continued commitment to fall prevention. After all, employees and other employers alike appreciate organizations that remain dedicated to upholding a positive, safe working culture.
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