OSHA Citations

Should a workplace receive a citation, employers must do the following:

• Post the OSHA citations at or near the work area involved. Each citation must remain posted until the violation has been corrected (or for three working days, whichever is longer)
• Correct cited violations by the deadline set in the OSHA citation
• Submit required abatement verification documentation
• Post abatement verification documents

Following the issue of a citation, the employer has an opportunity for appeal. This is done by giving the employer the opportunity to meet with the OSHA Area Director and discuss citations, penalties, and any other information relevant to the inspection. It may be possible to reach a settlement arrangement that allows the employer to eliminate the hazard and OSHA to resolve the complaint.

If the employer feels that the citations or penalties are invalid or excessive, they have fifteen working days to formally contest them. This appeal is done in writing to the OSHA Area Director. If an appeal is not made within the fifteen days, the citation and penalties become a final order from OSHA.

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