5,914 citations

Fall protection once again tops OSHA’s list. Violations typically involve unprotected edges, leading-edge work, and improper use of fall protection systems.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Install guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems

• -Ensure fall protection is used at heights of 6 feet or more in construction

• -Conduct regular jobsite inspections to identify fall hazards

2,546 citations

Often referred to as the “Right to Know” standard, hazard communication violations usually stem from missing or outdated Safety Data Sheets (SDS), improper labeling, or lack of employee training.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Maintain a current SDS for all hazardous chemicals

• -Properly label all containers

• -Train employees on chemical hazards and safe handling procedures

2,405 citations

Improper ladder use continues to cause serious injuries. Common issues include using damaged ladders, incorrect ladder angles, and climbing beyond the recommended height.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Inspect ladders before each use

• -Train workers on proper ladder selection and setup

• -Remove damaged ladders from service immediately

2,177 citations

Lockout/Tagout violations can lead to severe injuries or fatalities when machinery unexpectedly energizes during maintenance.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Develop written Lockout/Tagout procedures

• -Provide proper locks, tags, and devices

• -Train authorized and affected employees regularly

1,953 citations

Respiratory protection violations often involve missing written programs, improper respirator selection, or failure to conduct fit testing.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Establish a written respiratory protection program

• -Conduct medical evaluations and fit testing

• -Train employees on proper use, storage, and maintenance

1,907 citations

Even when fall protection equipment is provided, lack of proper training can still result in violations.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Train employees to recognize fall hazards

• -Document all training sessions

• -Retrain workers when job conditions change

Scaffolding violations commonly include improper assembly, missing guardrails, and overloaded platforms.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Ensure scaffolds are designed and inspected by a competent person

• -Install proper guardrails and access points

• -Follow manufacturer load limits

1,826 citations

Forklift-related violations frequently involve lack of operator training and unsafe operation practices.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Provide OSHA-compliant forklift training and certification

• -Conduct refresher training after incidents or near misses

• -Inspect powered industrial trucks daily

1,665 citations

Inadequate or improper PPE selection leads to many eye and face protection violations.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Conduct a hazard assessment for eye and face risks

• -Provide ANSI-compliant safety glasses, goggles, or face shields

• -Enforce consistent PPE usage

1,239 citations

Machine guarding violations occur when moving parts are exposed, increasing the risk of amputations and serious injuries.

How to avoid this violation:

• -Install proper guards on all machinery

• -Never remove or bypass machine guards

• -Train employees on safe machine operation

Beyond fines and citations, OSHA violations can result in:

• -Workplace injuries or fatalities

• -Increased insurance premiums

• -Lost productivity and downtime

• -Damage to company reputation

Proactively addressing these common violations helps protect workers while keeping your business compliant and operational.