Latest OSHA fines add to $3.7M virus-related total

Since the start of the pandemic through Dec. 17, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration says it has issued $3.7 million in penalties from citations arising from 278 inspections of workplaces charged with various violations, according to a statement issued Wednesday.

 

OSHA, in its latest statement tallying fines, named five of the most recent citations with fines ranging from $1,928 to $13,494. Three of the businesses cited are nursing homes.

 

The COVID-19-related OSHA citations stem from a number of violations, including failures to implement a written respiratory protection program; failures to provide a medical evaluation, respirator fit test, and training on the proper use of a respirator and personal protective equipment; failures to report an injury, illness or fatality, including failures to record such on recordkeeping forms; and failing to comply with the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, which requires employers to maintain a safe workplace, according to the announcement.

 

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