Each year, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) releases a list of the top violations they encounter during inspections. This isn’t just a rundown of rules—it’s a wake-up call for businesses to protect their employees and operations. The 2025 list shines a light on workplace hazards that could lead to injuries, lawsuits, or costly downtime.
Understanding these violations helps businesses not only stay compliant but also foster a culture of safety, saving lives and reducing hidden operational costs. Let’s explore the top violations you need to focus on this year to keep your workplace safe.
1. Fall Protection – General Requirements
Falls remain a leading cause of workplace injuries and deaths, especially in construction. OSHA continues to cite companies for failing to provide guardrails, harnesses, and other safety measures.Impact: Worker injuries, potential lawsuits, and operational disruptions.Solution: Regular safety audits, proper fall protection gear, and training programs.
2. Hazard Communication
Improper labeling and mishandling of hazardous chemicals are ongoing issues in industries like manufacturing and healthcare.Impact: Chemical burns, respiratory injuries, and fines.Solution: Update Safety Data Sheets (SDS), ensure clear labeling, and train employees on chemical safety.
3. Ladders
Misusing ladders or failing to inspect them leads to thousands of injuries annually.Impact: Costly medical bills and lost workdays.Solution: Provide ladder safety training and inspect equipment regularly.
4. Respiratory Protection
Workers exposed to harmful airborne particles face serious health risks if not properly protected.Impact: Chronic respiratory illnesses and increased absenteeism.Solution: Implement a respiratory protection program and ensure employees wear proper equipment.
5. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
Failing to control hazardous energy during equipment maintenance can have life-threatening consequences.Impact: Severe injuries, fatalities, and legal liabilities.Solution: Establish clear LOTO procedures and train employees on their importance.
6. Powered Industrial Trucks
Forklift mishaps often result from improper training or maintenance.Impact: Accidents, injuries, and damage to assets.Solution: Enforce strict training programs and maintain equipment regularly.
7. Fall Protection – Training Requirements
Even with the right equipment, untrained workers face unnecessary risks.Impact: Preventable accidents and non-compliance fines.Solution: Invest in comprehensive training tailored to your industry.
8. Scaffolding
Improper scaffolding assembly is a recurring safety violation.Impact: Collapses, falls, and injuries.Solution: Ensure scaffolding is properly assembled and inspected before use.
9. Eye and Face Protection
Failing to provide adequate protection for workers handling debris or chemicals is a common issue.Impact: Permanent injuries or blindness.Solution: Provide and enforce the use of proper eye and face protective gear.
10. Machine Guarding
Exposed machine parts are an ever-present hazard in manufacturing.Impact: Amputations, crushing injuries, and lawsuits.Solution: Install guards on all moving machinery and train employees to use them properly.
Why Compliance Matters
Ignoring these common violations isn’t just risky—it’s costly. Injuries lead to medical expenses, downtime, and potential lawsuits; OSHA penalties can escalate quickly, especially for repeat offenses. But beyond the costs, it’s about valuing your employees.
Proactive Steps for 2025
Conduct regular workplace safety audits.
Prioritize employee training and refreshers.
Invest in safety equipment that exceeds standards.
Develop a safety culture where employees feel empowered to identify risks.
At Ennat, Safety is Our Priority
We understand that behind every statistic is a human story. That’s why our solutions are designed to prevent accidents before they happen. From advanced safety barriers to custom protection systems, we help businesses stay OSHA-compliant and protect their most valuable assets—their people.
Let’s work together to create a safer 2025. 🚧
Contact Us Today:
+1 470-748-6640