Contributed by Todd Perry, CEO, PPM Consultants
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released its annual list of the most frequently cited workplace safety violations for fiscal year 2024. Based on thousands of worksite inspections, this report serves as a crucial guide for employers striving to create safer workplaces. While all categories have shown a year-over-year (YoY) reduction in violations, Fall Protection – General Requirements continues to lead the list for the 14th consecutive year.
Below, we have reviewed the violations, their implications, and the steps employers can take to mitigate these risks.
The 2024 OSHA Top 10 Violations
| Rank | Violation | Standard Number | Citations | YoY Change |
| 1 | Fall Protection – General Requirements | 1926.501 | 6,307 | -13.3% |
| 2 | Hazard Communication | 1910.1200 | 2,888 | -10.1% |
| 3 | Ladders | 1926.1053 | 2,573 | -13.6% |
| 4 | Respiratory Protection | 1910.134 | 2,470 | -0.4% |
| 5 | Lockout/Tagout | 1910.147 | 2,443 | -4.3% |
| 6 | Powered Industrial Trucks | 1910.178 | 2,248 | -12.2% |
| 7 | Fall Protection – Training Requirements | 1926.503 | 2,050 | -2.9% |
| 8 | Scaffolding | 1926.451 | 1,873 | -34.5% |
| 9 | Personal Protective Equipment – Eye and Face Protection | 1926.102 | 1,814 | -12.5% |
| 10 | Machine Guarding | 1910.212 | 1,541 | -6.3% |
Key Insights and Recommendations
- Fall Protection – General Requirements
Fall-related violations remain the most cited safety issue, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of safety harness usage and proper training. Employers should conduct regular safety audits and provide workers with high-quality protective equipment.
- Hazard Communication
Proper labeling and handling of hazardous chemicals are fundamental to workplace safety. Organizations must ensure that Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are accessible and that employees receive regular hazard communication training.
- Ladders
Ladder misuse remains a significant concern, with violations often stemming from improper usage and faulty equipment. Employers should provide comprehensive ladder safety training and conduct frequent equipment inspections.
- Respiratory Protection
With an increase in airborne contaminants in various industries, respiratory protection violations have surged. Fit testing, regular maintenance of respirators, and proper employee training are essential measures to reduce risk.
- Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
Failure to follow proper lockout/tagout procedures can lead to severe workplace injuries. Employers must enforce strict adherence to machine shutdown protocols before maintenance or servicing begins.
- Powered Industrial Trucks
Forklifts and other powered industrial trucks pose significant workplace hazards if not operated correctly. Employers should ensure operators are properly certified and implement frequent safety inspections.
- Fall Protection – Training Requirements
Many fall protection violations arise from inadequate training. Employers should establish ongoing education programs to ensure workers understand how to use safety equipment properly.
- Scaffolding
A dramatic 34.5% YoY drop in violations is a positive sign, but scaffolding accidents remain a concern. Employers should continue to reinforce scaffold safety measures, such as proper guardrail installation and load-bearing capacity compliance.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Eye and Face Protection
Eye and face injuries are preventable with proper PPE. Employers should enforce protective eyewear policies and provide high-quality, impact-resistant equipment.
- Machine Guarding
Unprotected machinery can lead to severe injuries. Employers must ensure all hazardous machine parts are fitted with proper guards and that employees receive adequate training on machinery operation.
The Road Ahead: Strengthening Workplace Safety
While OSHA’s 2024 report indicates a decline in overall violations, these numbers still highlight critical areas where safety improvements are needed. Employers must take proactive steps, including:
- Conducting regular safety audits to identify and address potential hazards.
- Implementing comprehensive training programs to ensure compliance with OSHA regulations.
- Investing in high-quality safety equipment to protect workers from common hazards.
- Encouraging a culture of safety where employees feel empowered to report unsafe conditions.
By prioritizing workplace safety, organizations can protect the well-being of their workforce and avoid costly OSHA citations.
For more information on OSHA standards and best practices, visit www.osha.gov.