Top 10 OSHA Violations of 2022
June 19, 2024
Top 10 OSHA Violations of 2022
As part of its mission, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducts workplace inspections to identify potential hazards and enforce safety regulations. OSHA has released the top 10 most cited violations in 2022.
The categories of violations remained the same as 2021, with only a few standards changing position. Once again, Fall Protection: General led the list of violations. These violations occurred between Oct. 2021 and Sept. 2022.
1. Fall Protection: General
1926.501
Number of violations: 5,980
This standard applies to construction workers who are working at heights of six feet or more. Falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries and fatalities. So it’s important for employers to provide necessary fall protection equipment, such as harnesses, guardrails, and safety nets.
2. Hazard Communication
1910.1200
Number of violations: 2,682
The Hazard Communication Standard requires employers to let employees know about the threats chemicals on premises can cause. This includes maintaining safety data sheets (SDSs) for each chemical, labeling containers, and training employees on the hazards of each chemical. Failure to comply with this standard can result in chemical-related injuries, illnesses, and even death.
3. Respiratory Protection
1910.134
Number of violations: 2,471
Respiratory protection is necessary in many workplaces to protect workers from inhaling harmful substances. The Respiratory Protection Standard requires employers to provide adequate respiratory protection equipment and to ensure that employees are trained in using the equipment.
4. Ladders
1926.1053
Number of violations: 2,430
Ladders are commonly used in construction work to provide access to elevated areas. The Ladder Standard requires employers to ensure that ladders are maintained and inspected, and that employees are properly trained in their use. Falls from ladders can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
5. Scaffolding
1926.451
Number of violations: 2,285
Scaffolding is commonly used in construction work to provide a platform for workers to perform tasks at elevated heights. The Scaffolding Standard requires employers to ensure that scaffolds are properly erected, maintained, and inspected. Failure to comply with this standard can result in falls and other injuries.
6. Lockout/Tagout
1910.147
Number of violations: 2,175
Lockout/Tagout procedures prevent the accidental release of hazardous energy when servicing and maintaining machinery. The Lockout/Tagout Standard requires employers to implement and enforce these procedures, and to provide adequate training for employees who are involved in servicing or maintenance.
7. Powered Industrial Trucks
1910.178
Number of violations: 1,922
Powered industrial trucks, such as forklifts and pallet jacks, are commonly used in many workplaces. The Powered Industrial Trucks Standard requires employers to ensure that operators are properly trained and certified, and that the trucks are properly maintained and inspected. Failure to comply with this standard can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
8. Fall Protection: Training Requirements
1926.503
Number of violations: 1,778
In addition to providing adequate fall protection equipment, employers must also provide training to employees who are working at heights. The Fall Protection Training Requirements Standard requires employers to provide training on fall hazards and the proper use of fall protection equipment.
9. Personal Protective & Lifesaving Equipment: Eye and Face Protection
1926.102
Number of violations: 1,582
Eye and face protection is necessary in many workplaces to protect workers from hazards such as flying debris, chemicals, and radiation. The Eye and Face Protection Standard requires employers to provide eye and face protection to their employees when there is a risk of injury.
10. Machine Guarding
1910.212
Number of violations: 1,488
Machine guarding is necessary to protect workers from hazards such as moving parts, flying debris, and electrical shock. The Machine Guarding Standard requires employers to ensure that machines are properly guarded, and that employees are properly trained in their use.
Learn more about OSHA compliance at your workplace
At Stronghold Safety, we carry a wide array of safety equipment to optimize your workplace environment.
We also offer comprehensive workplace safety services, from assessment and consultation to implementation. We want to help you ensure you and your employees are as safe as they can be on the job.
To learn more about OSHA compliance best practices, please contact us today.