Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has STAPLES, INC had?

Accepted Answer

STAPLES, INC has been inspected 5 times by OSHA between Jun 5, 2018 and Feb 7, 2023, with 13 violations and $72,360 in penalties on record.

Question 2

What OSHA requirements apply to Retail Trade employers?

Accepted Answer

Retail establishments are covered under OSHA's General Industry standards. Common compliance areas include exit routes (1910.36-37), walking and working surfaces to prevent slips and falls (1910.22), material handling equipment safety (1910.176), electrical installations (1910.303), and personal protective equipment where required (1910.132).

Question 3

How does California's OSHA program differ from federal OSHA?

Accepted Answer

California operates Cal/OSHA (the Division of Occupational Safety and Health), an OSHA-approved state plan that covers both private and public sector workers. Cal/OSHA standards must be at least as effective as federal standards, and in many cases California has adopted more protective requirements. Cal/OSHA conducts its own inspections and sets its own penalty amounts, which may differ from federal OSHA.

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

What do high OSHA penalty amounts indicate?

Accepted Answer

Higher penalty amounts typically result from Willful or Repeat violations, which carry maximums of $165,514 per violation (2025). Large penalty totals can also result from multiple Serious violations cited during a single inspection. Penalty amounts reflect OSHA's assessment of the severity and nature of the hazards found, not necessarily the overall safety culture of the employer. Employers may contest penalties through informal conference or formal proceedings.

Standard	Citations	Penalties
3203(A)(7)	2	$1,095
3241(C)	1	$150
3314(C)	1	$18,000
3314(L)	1	$795
3328(G)	1	$22,500
3999(B)	1	$2,700
4051(A)	1	$270
4184(B)	1	$22,500
4300.29	1	$375
4353(G)	1	$150

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#346517824	Feb 7, 2023	Accident	Partial	4	$46,500
#346454325	Jan 23, 2023	Accident	Partial	3	$19,590
#344464276	Nov 15, 2019	Follow-Up	Partial	0	$0
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