The National Safety Council reveals the most sited violation in fiscal year 2024.
As has been the case since 2018, OSHA Standards for general industry (29 CFR Part 1910) workplaces make up half of the Top 10 list for this fiscal year.
4 Most Cited General Industry Standards (Fiscal Year 2024)
1: Hazard Communication 2,888 citations
The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) requires employers to provide workers with training and information about hazardous chemicals in their workplace. From toxic gases to cleaning products, chemical hazards must be communicated to employees using written HazCom programs, hazard labels/warnings, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and training.
2: Respiratory Protection 2,470 citations
Employers must complete medical evaluations and perform fit testing for employees who are required to wear respirators. These steps ensure that the employee can safely wear the respirator while working and that the respirator will function properly.
Training on proper respirator use and maintenance is also required. Like many of the other standards on this list, adequate employee training is a common reason that OSHA cites employers for noncompliance.
3: Lockout/Tagout or Control of Hazardous Energy 2,433 citations
The unexpected release of hazardous energy during machinery use, maintenance, and servicing can result in severe injuries, amputations, and death.
Failure to train employees on proper lockout/tagout procedures is one of the most common reasons OSHA issues citations—and why LOTO is a mainstay on the annual Most Cited Violations list.
4: Forklifts/Powered Industrial Trucks 2,248 citations
Typically, the most common reasons employers are cited for noncompliance with the forklift Standard is failing to properly train, certify, and re-certify forklift drivers.