SKIP TO CONTENT
OSHA Penalties Increase Significantly
On August 1st, the Department of Labor increased penalties for its agencies, which include the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”). The increase in civil penalties was the result of legislation enacted by Congress in November of 2015, which required federal agencies to adjust their civil penalties to account for inflation. States that have their own Occupational Safety and Health Plans, which include Maryland, are required to adopt these maximum penalties.
Unfortunately, for business owners, the increase in civil penalties was significant and is certain to be painful for any business found in violation.
(1) For Violations that are Serious, Other-Than-Serious, or involve Posting Requirements, the previous maximum penalty of $7,000 per violation has now increased to $12,471 per violation.
(2) For Failure to Abate Violations, the previous maximum penalty of $7,000 per day beyond the abatement date has now increased to $12,471 per day beyond the abatement date.
(3) For Willful or Repeated Violations, the previous maximum penalty of $70,000 per violation has now increased to $124,709 per violation.
These maximum penalties will continue to adjust for inflation each year based on the Consumer Price Index.
Because of these increased penalties, it is now more imperative than ever that all businesses ensure that they are in compliance with OSHA’s regulations. If you or another business owner have concerns about whether you are in compliance with OSHA’s regulations, call us today at (301) 968-2384 or e-mail us at jay@staffordtrialteam.com.