Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has THORUD, INC. had?

Accepted Answer

THORUD, INC. has been inspected 10 times by OSHA between Aug 8, 1986 and Apr 21, 2015, with 38 violations and $13,750 in penalties on record.

Question 2

How does Minnesota's state OSHA plan work?

Accepted Answer

Minnesota operates its own OSHA-approved state plan through Minnesota OSHA (MNOSHA), covering both private and public sector workers. MNOSHA conducts inspections and enforces standards at least as effective as federal OSHA.

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 is a planned (programmed) OSHA inspection?

Accepted Answer

Planned inspections are part of OSHA's proactive enforcement strategy. OSHA selects workplaces for inspection based on objective criteria such as industry injury rates, participation in National or Local Emphasis Programs (NEPs/LEPs), or targeting of specific high-hazard industries. Being selected for a planned inspection does not indicate that OSHA has received a complaint or that a specific hazard has been reported.

Standard	Citations	Penalties
1910.147Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout)	7	$3,000
5206070001	6	$2,400
182065308	2	$0
1910.133Eye and Face Protection	2	$0
1910.151Medical Services and First Aid	2	$750
1910.212General Requirements for All Machines (Machine Guarding)	2	$1,050
1910.242Hand and Portable Powered Tools and Equipment, General	2	$600
1910.303Electrical - General Requirements	2	$0
1910.1052Methylene Chloride	2	$1,200
1910.219Mechanical Power-Transmission Apparatus	1	$600

ID	Opened	Type	Scope	Viol.	Penalties
#317990836	Apr 21, 2015	Planned	Complete	0	$0
#317978203	Mar 27, 2015	Planned	Complete	0	$0
#316261759	Jan 18, 2012	Planned	Complete	4	$2,850
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