OSHA’s 10 Most Commonly Cited Safety Violations

Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 1970 to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for men and women by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, education, and assistance.

One way OSHA advances this mission is by publishing an annual list of the Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Standards following workplace inspections. This list serves to alert employers about common and preventable hazards so they can take proactive steps to correct them before an OSHA inspection occurs. Doing so helps reduce the countless workplace injuries and illnesses that are avoidable each year.

The Top 10 Most Frequently Cited OSHA Standards

Much like previous years, fall protection, hazard communication, and scaffolding remain among the most cited violations. These recurring issues show the continued need for vigilance and compliance in protecting workers.

The final list is published on the OSHA website, but here’s a summary based on the latest figures:

Inadequate Fall Protection (7,600 violations)
Hazard Communication Failures (4,890 violations)
Improper Use of Scaffolding (3,450 violations)
Lack of Respiratory Protection (3,210 violations)
Lockout/Tagout Failures (3,025 violations)
Unsafe Use of Ladders (2,910 violations)
Powered Industrial Truck Violations (2,365 violations)
Insufficient Fall Prevention Training (2,020 violations)
Machine Guarding Deficiencies (1,980 violations)
Lack of Face and Eye Protection (1,590 violations)

Contractors and Site Owners Must Prioritize Safety

Failure to comply with OSHA standards leads to severe injuries and tragic fatalities every year. Workers injured because of such negligence—or the families of those who lost their lives—may be entitled to financial compensation for their losses.

Protecting Injured Construction Workers and Their Families

Construction sites remain among the most hazardous workplaces, and accidents—especially involving cranes, falls, or heavy machinery—can devastate not only workers but also their loved ones. These victims often have valid personal injury or wrongful death claims against negligent parties.

At Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C., we understand how life-changing a construction accident can be. Our senior partner and lead trial attorney, Jeff S. Korek, grew up in the construction industry and brings firsthand knowledge of the risks and realities workers face every day. This experience strengthens our ability to fight aggressively for your rights.