Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has KWEST INC DBA MIDAS MUFFLER had?

Accepted Answer

KWEST INC DBA MIDAS MUFFLER has been inspected 10 times by OSHA between Jan 30, 1995 and Jun 27, 2001, with 16 violations and $300 in penalties on record.

Question 2

How does Washington's state OSHA plan work?

Accepted Answer

Washington operates its own OSHA-approved state plan through the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), covering both private and public sector workers. Washington DOSH is known for having some of the most stringent workplace safety standards in the country.

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 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 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

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.

Standard	Citations	Penalties
0240004002	4	$50
0240006002	4	$0
0249560901	2	$0
0247500701	2	$150
0245920902	1	$0
0247500308	1	$100
240.6120	1	$0
0241800509	1	$0

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#304639313	Jun 27, 2001	Follow-Up	Partial	0	$0
#304146178	Jan 23, 2001	Complaint	Partial	3	$0
#115350019	Dec 14, 1995	Follow-Up	Partial	0	$0
#115496630