Question 1

How many OSHA inspections has WA317942052 - COSMO SPECIALTY FIBERS INC had?

Accepted Answer

WA317942052 - COSMO SPECIALTY FIBERS INC has been inspected 1 times by OSHA between Aug 23, 2016 and Aug 23, 2016, with 1 violations and $3,200 in penalties on record.

Question 2

What is Process Safety Management and which manufacturers need it?

Accepted Answer

Process Safety Management (PSM, 29 CFR 1910.119) applies to manufacturers that handle highly hazardous chemicals above threshold quantities. PSM requires employers to develop and maintain comprehensive safety programs including process hazard analyses, operating procedures, employee training, mechanical integrity programs, and emergency planning. Chemical and petroleum manufacturers are most commonly subject to PSM requirements.

Question 3

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 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

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 an OSHA referral inspection?

Accepted Answer

A referral inspection occurs when a federal or state agency, or another OSHA inspector, identifies a potential hazard and refers it to OSHA for follow-up. Referrals can come from other government agencies during their own inspections, from media reports, or from other OSHA inspections that identify hazards outside their scope. Referral inspections are given priority below complaints but above programmed inspections.