Each year OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration releases a list of the top 10 most frequent violations found during inspections. Knowing these trends can help businesses take proactive measures to mitigate these risks, resulting in a safer work environment. Continue reading to learn about OSHA’s top 10 workplace hazards and how to avoid them.
Our Analysis
Top 10 OSHA Violations and Requirements according to CDMS:
Fall Protection (Construction)
- 7000 violations
- Requires fall protection for workers at heights above 6 feet, as well as guardrail systems and safety nets.
Hazard Communication
- 3200 violations
- Requires complete written programs, worker training, safety data sheets, proper labeling of containers and workers to take precautions when using chemicals.
Ladders
- 3000 violations
- Requires portable ladders to extend 3 feet above the landing surface, proper ladder use, positioning, load handling and inspections.
Scaffolding
- 2900 violations
- Requires fall protection, guardrails and safe access on scaffolds above 10 feet tall, training and inspections.
Powered Industrial Trucks
- 2500 violations
- Requires adequate operator training/certification, inspections and proper truck operation, maintenance and refueling.
Control of Hazardous Energy
- 2500 citations
- Requires energy control procedures, worker training, annual inspections and lockout/tagout programs.
Respiratory Protection
- 2500 violations
- Requires adequate medical clearances for respirator users, correct fit and testing, correctly written programs and correct face piece seals.
Fall Protection Training
- 2100 violations
- Requires workers to be properly trained to recognize and minimize fall hazards and have adequate record certification.
Eye and Face Protection
- 2000 violations
- Requires workers to use eye protection against workplace impact/particle hazards like safety glasses or shields.
Machine Guarding
- 1600 citations
- Requires guarded machinery nip and pinch points and rotating parts like belts, gears, shafts, pulleys and chains.
Our Actionable Advice
In summary, these top 10 OSHA violations give business owners a list of ranked items to investigate and address. By proactively managing these items, business owners can maintain a safe work environment.
The Big Takeaway
The Whitlock Group is your trusted advisor on insurance matters. We have over 30 years of expertise and experience managing and mitigating the costly impact of business owners’ risk.
For comprehensive business insurance solutions or if you’re unsure whether your business is covered adequately for 2025, contact us today.
Greg Whitlock, President
678-906-2008 ext 1200
Cell: 404-218-8706