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Top 10 Most Frequently Cited OSHA Workplace Safety Violations

Michael Matthew

image for article on top 10 OSHA violations  - shows a person wearing a mask - ladders  - a hard hat - all part of the top 10 violations cited by OHSA

Workplace safety is vital for protecting employees and ensuring smooth operations. Each year, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) highlights the most commonly cited workplace safety violations. Understanding these violations and taking proactive measures can help businesses maintain compliance and foster a safer work environment. Below are the top 10 OSHA safety violations, their prevention methods, and recommended training options from Safety.Inc.


1. Fall Protection (Standard 1926.501)

  • Overview: Lack of adequate fall protection for employees working at heights leads to preventable falls and serious injuries.

  • Prevention Methods:

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

    • Conduct regular inspections of equipment and worksites.

    • Provide training on fall hazards and proper equipment usage.

  • Training Recommendation:

2. Hazard Communication (Standard 1910.1200)

  • Overview: Insufficient communication about hazardous chemicals puts employees at risk.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Ensure all chemicals have updated Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

    • Label all chemical containers with clear hazard warnings.

    • Train employees to understand SDS and labels.

  • Training Recommendation:

3. Respiratory Protection (Standard 1910.134)

  • Overview: Poor respiratory protection programs expose workers to airborne hazards.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Conduct hazard assessments to identify risks.

    • Implement a comprehensive respiratory protection program.

    • Provide fit testing and medical evaluations.

  • Training Recommendation:

4. Ladders (Standard 1926.1053)

  • Overview: Improper ladder use often results in falls and injuries.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Regularly inspect ladders for damage or defects.

    • Train workers on proper ladder use and setup.

    • Avoid overloading or using ladders incorrectly.

  • Training Recommendation:

5. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) (Standard 1910.147)

  • Overview: Inadequate hazardous energy control can lead to unexpected equipment startup and injuries.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Develop and enforce a Lockout/Tagout program.

    • Provide proper lockout devices and procedures.

    • Train employees on hazard recognition and energy control protocols.

  • Training Recommendation:

6. Scaffolding (Standard 1926.451)

  • Overview: Unsafe scaffolding practices increase the risk of structural failure and falls.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Follow manufacturer guidelines for scaffold assembly.

    • Inspect scaffolds for stability and damage daily.

    • Equip scaffolds with guardrails and fall protection systems.

  • Training Recommendation:

7. Powered Industrial Trucks (Standard 1910.178)

  • Overview: Unsafe operation of forklifts and industrial trucks leads to accidents.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Certify operators with specific equipment training.

    • Perform routine inspections and maintenance.

    • Establish safety protocols for speed limits and pedestrian zones.

  • Training Recommendation:

8. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Standard 1910.132)

  • Overview: Failing to provide or enforce PPE usage leaves workers vulnerable to hazards.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Conduct job hazard assessments to identify PPE needs.

    • Provide appropriate PPE for each task.

    • Train workers on proper PPE use, care, and limitations.

  • Training Recommendation:

9. Machine Guarding (Standard 1910.212)

  • Overview: Missing or inadequate machine guards expose workers to dangerous moving parts.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Install proper guards on all machinery.

    • Regularly inspect and maintain machine guards.

    • Train employees on safe machinery operation.

  • Training Recommendation:

10. Eye and Face Protection (Standard 1926.102)

  • Overview: Lack of proper eye and face protection exposes workers to flying debris, chemical splashes, and other hazards.

  • Prevention Methods:

    • Provide safety glasses, goggles, or face shields appropriate for the task.

    • Inspect protective equipment regularly for damage.

    • Train employees on proper use and maintenance.

  • Training Recommendation:

Conclusion

Addressing Top 10 OSHA’s most cited violations is a proactive way to improve workplace safety, reduce accidents, and avoid penalties. By implementing preventive measures and providing targeted training, such as those available at Safety.Inc, organizations can build a safer, more productive environment for their teams.


References

  1. OSHA Official Website

  2. Safety.Inc Training Catalog

  3. National Safety Council (NSC)

  4. American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)

By prioritizing safety and compliance, organizations not only protect their employees but also contribute to a culture of accountability and care.

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