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10 Most Common OSHA Penalties and Tips to Avoid Them
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Lockout/Tagout (1910.147)
Lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures are crucial for protecting workers from the unexpected energization of machines during maintenance. In 2023, frequent violations included the absence of proper LOTO procedures, inadequate employee training and failure to utilize energy control devices correctly. These lapses can result in serious injuries or fatalities, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive LOTO programs and adherence to proper procedures to safeguard workers.
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Respiratory Requirements (1910.134)
Violation of respiratory protection standards frequently occurs when employers fail to implement written respiratory protection programs, conduct proper fit testing for respirators or provide medical evaluations for employees required to use respirators. Inadequate respiratory protection exposes workers to respiratory hazards such as harmful dust, fumes or chemicals, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses or injuries. Employers must prioritize respiratory safety measures to protect workers and comply with OSHA regulations.
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Fall Protection – Training Requirement (1926.503)
More than 800 workers lost their lives in 2018 due to slip, trip and fall accidents. Inadequate training on fall hazards and proper use of fall protection equipment is a common violation in industries where workers are exposed to elevated surfaces. Employers often fail to provide comprehensive training programs or ensure that workers understand the importance of using fall protection equipment correctly. Effective training is crucial for empowering workers to recognize fall hazards, use protective equipment and prevent accidents, thereby ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations and promoting a safe work environment.
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Eye and Face Protection (1926.102)
Eye and face protection violations commonly occur in industries where workers are exposed to flying debris, chemicals or other hazardous substances. In 2023, issues included the absence of proper protective gear, non-compliance with safety standards and insufficient training on equipment use. Protecting workers' eyes and faces from injuries requires consistent use of appropriate PPE and adherence to safety protocols.