Construction firms regularly contest the size of an OSHA fine or the violation itself. After the agency issues a citation, employers typically have 15 working days to contest in writing the citation, proposed penalty or abatement date, the deadline for fixing the safety deficiency.
Another option an employer has is to request an informal conference with the appropriate OSHA area director, who can better explain the requirements of the citation or even negotiate and authorize an informal settlement agreement. After 15 days, the area director has limited authority to adjust any component of the citation.
