OSHA issues nearly $2.9M in COVID-19 safety violations

Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic through Nov. 5, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has issued 204 citations arising from inspections for violations relating to the pandemic, resulting in proposed penalties totaling nearly $2.9 million.

 

According to a statement issued Friday, OSHA inspections have resulted in the agency citing employers for violations that include failing to implement written respiratory protection programs, failing to provide medical evaluations, respirator fit tests, training on the proper use of respirators and personal protective equipment, failing to report or record injuries and fatalities, among other violations. Several businesses were also cited for failing to comply with the OSHA’s general duty clause, which requires employers to provide safe workplaces.

 

The latest fines range from $1,928 to $32,965, according to the statement.

 

OSHA has withdrawn at least one citation to a medical center in Rockville Centre, New York, after the employer provided evidence of a good faith attempt at complying with the standard in question, according to the statement.

 

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