Every year, OSHA releases a list of the most commonly cited safety violations across American workplaces—and the findings are consistent. Companies across industries fall short in the same areas, resulting in costly penalties, serious injuries, and unnecessary business risk.
In this article, we’ll cover the top 10 OSHA violations and, more importantly, how to prevent them with proactive training, compliance programs, and on-site support from ROI Safety Services.
1. Fall Protection (1926.501)
Why it matters: Falls remain the leading cause of fatalities in construction. Fall protection violations occur when workers are exposed to unprotected edges, roofs, or scaffolding without proper safety gear.
Prevention Tips:
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Provide harnesses, guardrails, and fall arrest systems.
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Conduct regular inspections of equipment.
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Offer on-site fall protection training to all employees working at heights.
2. Hazard Communication (1910.1200)
Why it matters: Employees must understand the chemicals they work with, including potential hazards and safe handling practices.
Prevention Tips:
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Label all containers properly.
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Keep Safety Data Sheets (SDS) accessible.
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Train staff on reading labels and SDS with our Safety Training Subscription.
3. Respiratory Protection (1910.134)
Why it matters: Without proper respiratory protection, workers can suffer long-term health issues when exposed to harmful fumes, vapors, or particles.
Prevention Tips:
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Conduct fit testing and medical evaluations.
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Maintain a written respiratory protection program.
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Schedule a session with ROI for respiratory protection compliance.
4. Ladders (1926.1053)
Why it matters: Ladder misuse leads to thousands of injuries each year—usually due to improper placement, defective equipment, or unsafe climbing practices.
Prevention Tips:
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Train employees on safe ladder use.
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Inspect ladders before use.
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Replace damaged ladders immediately.
5. Scaffolding (1926.451)
Why it matters: Inadequate scaffolding setup or maintenance can lead to catastrophic falls and injuries.
Prevention Tips:
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Ensure scaffolds are erected under the supervision of a qualified person.
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Inspect scaffolding regularly.
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Use proper fall protection on elevated platforms.
6. Lockout/Tagout (1910.147)
Why it matters: Workers servicing machinery without proper lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures risk being shocked, crushed, or caught in moving parts.
Prevention Tips:
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Develop a written LOTO program.
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Provide hands-on LOTO training with ROI Safety Services.
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Audit LOTO procedures annually.
7. Powered Industrial Trucks (1910.178)
Why it matters: Forklifts and other industrial trucks require formal training to prevent rollovers, collisions, and pedestrian injuries.
Prevention Tips:
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Certify all operators through our Forklift Train the Trainer program.
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Enforce safe speed limits and designated driving zones.
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Perform daily vehicle inspections.
8. Fall Protection – Training Requirements (1926.503)
Why it matters: Beyond providing fall protection equipment, OSHA requires employers to train workers on its proper use.
Prevention Tips:
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Document all fall protection training sessions.
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Re-train employees after violations or equipment changes.
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Leverage on-site training options from ROI to stay compliant.
9. Machine Guarding (1910.212)
Why it matters: Exposed moving parts can cause serious injuries such as amputations if not properly guarded.
Prevention Tips:
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Install guards on all machinery.
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Conduct regular safety inspections.
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Include machine guarding in your employee safety orientation.
10. Eye and Face Protection (1926.102)
Why it matters: Debris, sparks, and chemicals can cause permanent eye damage without proper PPE.
Prevention Tips:
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Provide appropriate goggles, shields, or face masks.
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Ensure PPE fits correctly and is in good condition.
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Train staff on when and how to use protection.
How to Prevent All OSHA Violations Proactively
The best way to avoid costly citations and injuries is to adopt a proactive, year-round safety strategy. ROI Safety Services offers customizable programs tailored to your industry and jobsite.
Our full range of services includes:
Our trainers ensure your employees are prepared, your programs are documented, and your compliance is bulletproof.
Why Partner with ROI Safety Services?
At ROI Safety Services, we’ve helped businesses of all sizes—from manufacturers to construction crews—avoid violations and create safer work environments.
We don’t just check boxes. We build custom safety programs designed for your operations, schedule, and budget.
Plus, with our price match guarantee, you get premium service without overpaying.
Take Action Before OSHA Does
Most violations are avoidable with proper training and documentation. Don’t wait until an inspection or injury to address safety gaps.
Contact us to:
Final Thought: Prevention Beats Penalties
The top OSHA violations don’t just cost money—they cost time, trust, and lives. Whether it’s improper ladder use or lack of hazard communication, ROI Safety Services helps your team close the gaps before OSHA finds them.
Protect your people. Protect your business. Be proactive with safety.