Coronavirus Violation OSHA Fines Top $2 Million Since Start of Pandemic

According to newly released data, the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited 144 establishments for coronavirus related violations, resulting in more than $2 million in fines.

The reasons for these citations include:

• Failure to implement a written respiratory protection program;
• Failure to provide a medical evaluation, respirator fit test, or training on the proper use of a respirator and personal protective equipment;
• Failure to report an injury, illness or fatality;
• Failure to record an injury or illness on OSHA recordkeeping forms;
• Failure to comply with the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.

Thirty-two establishments received OSHA citations in October alone for $421,887 in fines. These fines can range from a little over $1,000 to more than $20,000 depending on the severity and nature of the citation.

According to the OSHA statement announcing the citations, “Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to help ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, education and assistance.”

Over the course of the coronavirus pandemic, OSHA has issued several versions of updated guidelines meant to protect essential workers. A full overview of all OSHA standards, laws and regulations can be found on the organization’s official website.

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