Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has I.E.A., INC. had?

Accepted Answer

I.E.A., INC. has been inspected 10 times by OSHA between Nov 13, 1992 and Nov 28, 2014, with 22 violations and $13,627 in penalties on record.

Question 2

Why are lockout/tagout violations so common in manufacturing?

Accepted Answer

Lockout/tagout (29 CFR 1910.147) is consistently among the most cited standards in manufacturing because it applies to virtually every piece of powered equipment. Common violations include lack of written energy control procedures for specific machines, failure to train authorized and affected employees, failure to conduct periodic inspections of energy control procedures, and using inadequate lockout devices. The standard's detailed requirements make full compliance challenging for facilities with diverse equipment.

Question 3

How does OSHA enforcement work in Wisconsin?

Accepted Answer

Wisconsin operates under federal OSHA jurisdiction for private-sector employers. Federal OSHA conducts all workplace safety inspections and enforcement. Wisconsin has a large manufacturing sector that is a major focus of OSHA inspection activity.

Question 4

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 5

What is an Other-than-Serious violation?

Accepted Answer

An Other-than-Serious violation is cited when a hazard exists that could cause injury or illness but would not likely result in death or serious physical harm. These violations carry a maximum penalty of $16,550 per violation for 2025, though penalties are discretionary and may be reduced to zero. Common examples include recordkeeping deficiencies and posting requirements.

Question 6

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.

Standard	Citations	Penalties
1910.147Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout)	3	$1,410
1910.215Abrasive Wheel Machinery	3	$1,600
1910.134Respiratory Protection	2	$0
1910.176Handling Materials - General	2	$1,366
5A0001General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1)	2	$5,078
1910.106Flammable Liquids	2	$1,433
1910.1030Bloodborne Pathogens	2	$0
1910.1200Hazard Communication	2	$750
1910.304Electrical - Wiring Design and Protection	1	$0
1910.22Walking-Working Surfaces - General Requirements	1	$910

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#340116979	Nov 28, 2014	Referral	Partial	0	$0
#339619694	Mar 7, 2014	Unprogrammed Related	Partial	1	$2,678
#313525966	Feb 26, 2010	Referral	Partial	1	$2,400
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