Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has FINGERHUT CORPORATION had?

Accepted Answer

FINGERHUT CORPORATION has been inspected 14 times by OSHA between Jun 14, 1983 and Aug 22, 1995, with 51 violations and $14,815 in penalties on record.

Question 2

How does Minnesota's state OSHA plan work?

Accepted Answer

Minnesota operates its own OSHA-approved state plan through Minnesota OSHA (MNOSHA), covering both private and public sector workers. MNOSHA conducts inspections and enforces standards at least as effective as federal OSHA.

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 Repeat violation under OSHA?

Accepted Answer

A Repeat violation is issued when an employer has been previously cited for a substantially similar condition within the past five years. Repeat violations carry penalties up to $165,514 per violation for 2025. OSHA checks the employer's inspection history across all establishments to determine whether a prior citation for a similar hazard exists.

Question 5

How does OSHA calculate penalty amounts?

Accepted Answer

OSHA sets initial penalty amounts based on the gravity of the violation (severity and probability of injury). Penalties are then adjusted based on three factors: employer size (smaller employers may receive reductions), good faith (employers with effective safety programs), and violation history (employers with no recent prior violations). Penalties may be further reduced through informal settlement conferences between the employer and the OSHA Area Director.

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
1910.212General Requirements for All Machines (Machine Guarding)	6	$1,572
1910.37Maintenance, Safeguards, and Operational Features for Exit Routes	6	$144
1910.177Servicing Multi-Piece and Single Piece Rim Wheels	4	$0
1910.23Ladders	4	$988
1910.219Mechanical Power-Transmission Apparatus	4	$708
1910.303Electrical - General Requirements	3	$858
1910.305Electrical - Wiring Methods, Components, and Equipment	3	$2,100
1910.157Portable Fire Extinguishers	2	$0
1910.215Abrasive Wheel Machinery	2	$845
1910.178Powered Industrial Trucks	2	$2,714

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#126574656	Aug 22, 1995	Complaint	Partial	0	$0
#120410055	Nov 16, 1994	Complaint	Partial	0	$0
#120389150	Nov 29, 1993	Complaint	Partial	1	$0
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