OSHA's Top 10 Violations of 2024
As we step into 2025, it's crucial to reflect on the past year's workplace safety trends to better prepare for the future. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released its annual list of the top 10 most frequently cited standards for fiscal year 2024. This list serves as a vital resource for employers and safety professionals, highlighting areas that require immediate attention to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities.
1. Fall Protection—General Requirements (1926.501)
For the fourteenth consecutive year, fall protection remains the most frequently cited OSHA violation, with 6,307 violations recorded in 2024. This standard addresses the need for proper fall protection systems in construction to prevent falls from heights, which are a leading cause of workplace fatalities.
2. Hazard Communication (1910.1200)
With 2,888 violations, hazard communication ranks second. This standard ensures that information about chemical hazards and associated protective measures is communicated to workers through labels, safety data sheets, and training programs.
3. Ladders (1926.1053)
Ladder safety continues to be a significant concern, with 2,573 violations. This standard covers the proper use, maintenance, and inspection of ladders to prevent falls and injuries in construction.
4. Respiratory Protection (1910.134)
Respiratory protection violations totaled 2,470 in 2024. This standard requires employers to establish and maintain a respiratory protection program to protect workers from inhaling harmful contaminants.
5. Lockout/Tagout (1910.147)
The control of hazardous energy, commonly known as lockout/tagout, saw 2,443 violations. This standard is designed to prevent accidental startup of machinery and equipment during maintenance and servicing.
6. Powered Industrial Trucks (1910.178)
With 2,248 violations, powered industrial trucks, such as forklifts, continue to be a focus area. This standard addresses the safe operation and maintenance of these vehicles to prevent accidents and injuries.
7. Fall Protection—Training Requirements (1926.503)
Training for fall protection is critical, with 2,050 violations recorded. This standard mandates that employers provide training to workers who might be exposed to fall hazards.
8. Scaffolding (1926.451)
Scaffolding violations totaled 1,873 in 2024. This standard covers the requirements for the safe design and use of scaffolding to prevent falls and structural collapses.
9. Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment—Eye and Face Protection (1926.102)
Eye and face protection saw 1,814 violations. This standard requires the use of appropriate personal protective equipment to protect workers from hazards that can cause eye and face injuries.
10. Machine Guarding (1910.212)
Rounding out the top 10 with 1,541 violations is machine guarding. This standard requires the installation of guards on machinery to protect workers from moving parts and other hazards.
Key Takeaways
The 2024 list of OSHA's top 10 violations underscores the persistent challenges in workplace safety. Fall protection continues to dominate the list, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and improvement in this area. Employers must prioritize compliance with these standards to create safer work environments and reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities.
By addressing these common violations, organizations can not only avoid costly penalties but also foster a culture of safety that benefits everyone. Let's use these insights to make 2025 a safer year for all workers. Contact UT Center for Industrial Services today for assistance with all of your OSHA compliance needs.
