As part of efforts to call out offenders and highlight safety best practices, OSHA frequently publicizes cases where inspections or investigations result in hefty fines.
The biggest of these cases often involve residential builders that usually have a history of failing to provide workers with adequate protection from hazards — most commonly exposure to heights. In fact, the the agency recently revealed the most frequently cited standard was general fall protection requirements, with 7,271 violations in fiscal year 2023, which ended in September. Employers usually contest the fines and negotiate with the agency to reduce their cost.
