OSHA announces pandemic-related fines totaling $484,069

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has cited 37 entities for violations related to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in proposed penalties totaling $484,069, the U.S. Department of Labor announced Friday.

Most of those fined are health care organizations, where OSHA inspectors found that they failed to have a written respiratory protection program; failed to provide a medical evaluation, respirator fit test, training on the proper use of a respirator, and personal protective equipment; failed to report injuries or fatalities; or failed to keep workers safe in the pandemic by violating the general duty clause.

Of the entities cited, 24 are located in New York or New Jersey — states that had a high number of COVID-19 fatalities. Two hospitals in New Jersey received the highest fines: $25,061.

The Department of Veterans Affairs was cited three times but not fined.

More insurance and workers compensation news on the coronavirus crisis here.