Top 10 OSHA Violations in 2017

Each year, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reveals the most frequently cited workplace violations. Unfortunately, the top violations remain consistent year after year. Fall Protection topped the list again, with 6,072 violations this year. Hazard Communication, Scaffolding, Respiratory Protection, and Lockout/Tagout violations followed closely behind.

Rounding out the top 10 violations were Ladders (improper use), Powered Industrial Trucks, Machine Guarding, Fall Protection Training, and Electrical Wiring Methods. Although these violations closely match previous years’ top 10 lists, the number of citations for each category in 2017 were down from 2016. Violations of Fall Protection Training standards are a new addition to the mostly unchanged rankings.

In order to keep workers safe, it is important for employers to review the violations that made the list, and ensure that their programs and policies are OSHA compliant. Always keep safety rules and procedures posted, making sure all employees are familiar with them. Be sure to provide proper training for workers and conduct periodic inspections, as health and safety issues evolve. Setting safety goals, monitoring progress, and evaluating outcomes is an efficient way to manage workplace safety.

Implementing a health and safety program in the workplace is a great way to foster a proactive approach to finding and addressing workplace hazards before they cause harm. Having a clear policy set in place communicates that health and safety is a top priority of the organization. For more information on OSHA’s recommended practices and compliance tips, visit https://www.osha.gov/shpguidelines/.