Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has NORTHWEST GRAIN had?

Accepted Answer

NORTHWEST GRAIN has been inspected 3 times by OSHA between Apr 25, 1995 and Apr 10, 1996, with 13 violations and $789 in penalties on record.

Question 2

How does OSHA enforcement work in North Dakota?

Accepted Answer

North Dakota operates under federal OSHA jurisdiction for private-sector employers. Federal OSHA conducts all inspections and enforcement. The oil and gas industry in western North Dakota sees significant enforcement activity.

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

What is an OSHA abatement date?

Accepted Answer

An abatement date is the deadline by which an employer must correct a cited hazard. OSHA sets abatement dates based on the nature and severity of the hazard and the feasibility of correction. Employers must certify in writing that they have corrected the violation by the abatement date. If more time is needed, employers can petition OSHA for a Petition for Modification of Abatement (PMA) before the deadline expires.

Standard	Citations	Penalties
1910.219Mechanical Power-Transmission Apparatus	6	$150
1910.23Ladders	3	$150
1910.272Grain Handling Facilities	2	$188
1910.307Electrical - Hazardous (Classified) Locations	1	$113
5A0001General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1)	1	$188

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#113331813	Apr 10, 1996	Follow-Up	Complete	0	$0
#113324446	Nov 29, 1995	Planned	Complete	13	$789
#113323646	Apr 25, 1995	Planned	No Inspection	0	$0