OSHA Releases Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Workplace Safety Standards

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently unveiled its preliminary list of the Top 10 most frequently cited workplace safety standards for the fiscal year 2022. This announcement was made during the 2022 NSC Safety Congress & Expo, which is renowned as the largest annual gathering of safety professionals worldwide. The list, presented by Patrick Kapust, the acting director of OSHA's Directorate of Enforcement Programs, sheds light on the persistent safety violations that continue to impact workplaces across the country.

Fall Protection Leads the List for the 12th Consecutive Year

Once again, Fall Protection - General Requirements secures the top spot on the list, marking its 12th consecutive year as the most frequently cited workplace safety standard. This underscores the critical importance of protecting workers from fall hazards, emphasizing the need for comprehensive fall protection measures in various industries. Following closely behind Fall Protection are Hazard Communication and Respiratory Protection, which consistently rank among the top violations reported by OSHA.

Importance of Identifying Trends and Seeking Solutions

Lorraine Martin, the National Safety Council (NSC) president and CEO, highlighted the significance of OSHA's annual Top 10 list in identifying trends and guiding safety professionals toward appropriate solutions. While workplace safety has seen advancements, the recurring nature of certain violations necessitates employers to actively seek education and resources to ensure the well-being of their workers.

The Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Workplace Safety Standards

The following is the complete list of the Top 10 most frequently cited workplace safety standards for the fiscal year 2022, along with the number of reported violations:

1. Fall Protection - General Requirements (1926.501): 5,260 violations

2. Hazard Communication (1910.1200): 2,424 violations

3. Respiratory Protection (1910.134): 2,185 violations

4. Ladders (1926.1053): 2,143 violations

5. Scaffolding (1926.451): 2,058 violations

6. Lockout/Tagout (1910.147): 1,977 violations

7. Powered Industrial Trucks (1910.178): 1,749 violations

8. Fall Protection - Training Requirements (1926.503): 1,556 violations

9. Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment - Eye and Face Protection (1926.102): 1,401 violations

10. Machine Guarding (1910.212): 1,370 violations

Promoting Education and Resources for Workplace Safety

In light of these persistent violations, it is crucial for employers to prioritize education and access available resources to ensure a safe working environment. Employers can proactively mitigate risks and safeguard their workers from potential harm by addressing these commonly cited standards.

OSHA's Top 10 list is a valuable tool for safety professionals, enabling them to identify prevalent safety concerns and take appropriate measures to prevent future violations. Through ongoing education, proactive safety practices, and consistent adherence to established safety standards, employers can foster a safety culture and protect their workforce's well-being.

Note: The fiscal year for OSHA ends on September 30th.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For official guidance on workplace safety, please refer to OSHA regulations and consult with relevant authorities.

Source: OSHA Reveals Top 10 Safety Violations at NSC Safety Congress & Expo