Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has HILLS FOOD STORES, INC. had?

Accepted Answer

HILLS FOOD STORES, INC. has been inspected 2 times by OSHA between Oct 4, 1990 and Feb 20, 1991, with 1 violations and $1,470 in penalties on record.

Question 2

How does North Carolina's state OSHA plan work?

Accepted Answer

North Carolina operates its own OSHA-approved state plan through the North Carolina Division of Occupational Safety and Health (NC OSH), covering both private and public sector workers. NC OSH 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

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 5

What triggers an OSHA follow-up inspection?

Accepted Answer

OSHA conducts follow-up inspections to verify that previously cited hazards have been corrected by the abatement deadline. Follow-ups may also verify that new safety programs or procedures required by earlier citations are being properly implemented. If the employer has not corrected the cited conditions, OSHA can issue a Failure to Abate notice with additional daily penalties.

Question 6

How often does OSHA update its penalty amounts?

Accepted Answer

OSHA adjusts maximum penalty amounts annually based on the Consumer Price Index, as required by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act. The most recent adjustment took effect in January 2025, setting the maximum for willful and repeat violations at $165,514 and for serious and other-than-serious violations at $16,550. These maximums apply to penalties assessed after the adjustment date, regardless of when the inspection occurred.

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#18522839	Feb 20, 1991	Follow-Up	Partial	0	$0
#18522979	Oct 4, 1990	Complaint	Partial	1	$1,470