Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has MONTANA RAIL LINK had?

Accepted Answer

MONTANA RAIL LINK has been inspected 4 times by OSHA between Dec 15, 1987 and Jan 20, 2023, with 4 violations and $8,123 in penalties on record.

Question 2

How does OSHA enforcement work in Montana?

Accepted Answer

Montana operates under federal OSHA jurisdiction for private-sector employers. Federal OSHA conducts all inspections and enforcement. Montana has notable OSHA enforcement activity in agriculture, mining support, and construction.

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

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
5A0001General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1)	2	$1,620
1910.141Sanitation	1	$5,693
1910.178Powered Industrial Trucks	1	$810

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#346452402	Jan 20, 2023	Complaint	Partial	1	$5,693
#338962954	Mar 18, 2013	Complaint	Partial	0	$0
#100607407	Aug 31, 1988	Follow-Up	Partial	0	$0
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