What happens when the Hazard Communication Standard is violated?

After it was determined that the Hazard Communication Standard should align with the Globally Harmonized System, OSHA updated its inspection procedures for businesses that involve hazardous chemicals. In 2024, OSHA also updated the amount of money that each violation of the Hazard Communication Standard could cost the business found to be in violation of the standard.

Serious violations will cost employers between $1,190 and $16,131 per violation. Violations considered other-than-serious or involving posting requirements or a failure to abate will cost employers up to $16,131 per violation. Willful or repeated violations will cost employers between $11,524 and $161,323 per violation.

Such penalties can be levied for a wide variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, labels that have been removed or defaced, a lack of proper training for employees, employee exposures to hazardous chemicals, inadequate or nonexistent personal protective equipment, and a failure to maintain proper Safety Data Sheets.

There are updated penalties for violations of the Hazard Communication Standard by OSHA in 2024. These penalties are significant and are designed to ensure compliance with safety regulations regarding hazardous chemicals in the workplace.

To summarize the updated penalty ranges:

1. Serious Violations: Employers found in violation of the standard face penalties ranging from $1,190 to $16,131 per violation. Serious violations may involve significant lapses in compliance that could potentially result in harm to employees.

2. Other-Than-Serious Violations or Failure to Abate: Violations falling into this category also carry penalties of up to $16,131 per violation. These violations may pertain to less critical aspects of compliance, such as posting requirements or minor administrative issues.

3. Willful or Repeated Violations: The most severe penalties are reserved for willful or repeated violations, ranging from $11,524 to $161,323 per violation. This indicates deliberate disregard for safety regulations or a pattern of non-compliance, posing serious risks to employee health and safety.

Common reasons for such penalties include issues like removed or defaced labels on hazardous chemical containers, inadequate employee training, exposure incidents, lack of proper personal protective equipment, and failure to maintain Safety Data Sheets.

Businesses should prioritize compliance with the Hazard Communication Standard and the Globally Harmonized System to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees and to avoid costly penalties imposed by OSHA.