Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has ELZEE CONSTRUCTION INC. had?

Accepted Answer

ELZEE CONSTRUCTION INC. has been inspected 4 times by OSHA between Apr 23, 1991 and May 22, 1995, with 18 violations and $82,475 in penalties on record.

Question 2

Does New York have its own OSHA program?

Accepted Answer

New York operates a partial state plan through the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL PESH program). This plan covers state and local government workers only. Private-sector employers in New York are covered by federal OSHA, which conducts inspections and enforces standards directly. New York City also has its own Department of Buildings that enforces construction safety requirements.

Question 3

What is a Serious violation under OSHA?

Accepted Answer

A Serious violation is cited when there is a substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard, and the employer knew or should have known about the condition. Serious violations carry mandatory penalties. For 2025, the maximum penalty for a serious violation is $16,550 per violation. The actual amount may be adjusted based on factors including employer size, good faith efforts, and violation history.

Question 4

What is a Willful violation under OSHA?

Accepted Answer

A Willful violation is the most severe classification OSHA issues. It applies when an employer intentionally and knowingly commits a violation, or when an employer is aware of a hazardous condition and makes no reasonable effort to eliminate it. Willful violations carry the highest penalties, with a maximum of $165,514 per violation for 2025 and a minimum penalty of $11,823.

Question 5

What do high OSHA penalty amounts indicate?

Accepted Answer

Higher penalty amounts typically result from Willful or Repeat violations, which carry maximums of $165,514 per violation (2025). Large penalty totals can also result from multiple Serious violations cited during a single inspection. Penalty amounts reflect OSHA's assessment of the severity and nature of the hazards found, not necessarily the overall safety culture of the employer. Employers may contest penalties through informal conference or formal proceedings.

Question 6

How do OSHA complaint inspections work?

Accepted Answer

OSHA complaint inspections are initiated when a current employee, former employee, or their representative files a formal complaint about workplace hazards. OSHA is required by law to investigate all formal complaints. The agency may conduct an on-site inspection or, for less serious complaints, contact the employer by phone or letter to request corrective action. Workers who file complaints are protected from retaliation under the OSH Act.

Standard	Citations	Penalties
1926.500Fall Protection - Scope, Application, and Definitions	4	$69,000
1926.1052Stairways (Construction)	3	$3,675
1926.404Electrical - Wiring Design and Protection (Construction)	2	$3,000
1926.405Electrical - Wiring Methods (Construction)	2	$1,500
1926.59Hazard Communication	2	$0
1926.21Safety Training and Education	1	$1,200
1926.416Electrical - Safety Requirements (Construction)	1	$0
1926.150Fire Protection (Construction)	1	$2,700
1926.501Fall Protection - Duty to Have Fall Protection	1	$100
1926.25Housekeeping	1	$1,300

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#17549510	May 22, 1995	Complaint	Complete	1	$100
#113932602	Oct 12, 1994	Planned	Complete	10	$76,200
#109918136	Sep 14, 1994	Referral	Complete	6	$6,000
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