2020 is here, which means new rules and regulations are in store.  OSHA is no exception. 

Just as we have seen in the past, our friends at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have increased their fine amounts for 2020.  Lucky us!

The new maximum civil penalty is $13,494. That’s a $234 increase from last year, and $8,188 more than it was in 2018.

The maximum daily fine is now also $13,494. That means that if OSHA finds a safety issue at your organization and you don’t address it by their deadline, you could be on the hook for as much as $13,494 per day.

Last, but certainly not least, OSHA’s penalty for willful or repeat violations has increased to $134,937.

Why these increases? Blame inflation. The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 requires federal agencies to adjust their maximum fees for violations to stay commensurate with the cost of living. In other words, as the price of a gallon of milk goes up, so too do OSHA fines.

Now’s a great time to save money by improving your safety culture. See how easy and cost-effective it can be to reduce your regulatory risk.