Tampa OSHA Attorney
In Tampa, Florida, and throughout the entire country, complying with the workplace regulations outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is an essential part of operating a successful business. OSHA enforcement is on the rise and so, businesses of all types and sizes require the help of a knowledgeable Tampa OSHA attorney who can guide them throughout these complicated laws. An OSHA violation will have a significant impact on the finances, operations, and personnel of your business. Our experienced attorney can explain how to avoid citations and protect your business.
How to Prevent OSHA Citations
When a company has failed to comply with OSHA standards and regulations, they may receive a violation citation. After a citation, you may have to make changes in your operations to meet safety standards, or you may have to pay very expensive fines. When trying to avoid a citation, the first and most important step is to ensure you are familiar with the standards. The following can help you avoid citations and violations:
- Conduct safety audits
- Enforce safety rules
- Keep accurate records
- Address employees’ concerns
- Respond to citations quickly
- Secure the workplace against common hazards
- Use the right personal protective equipment
- Post a violation in a visible location near or at the site of the incident
- Refrain from retaliating against an employee who has made a complaint
How to Respond to an OSHA Violation
OSHA inspections are not done maliciously. The OSHA simply wants to ensure that your workplace is safe. If you have received notice from OSHA informing you of a violation, it is important to take the appropriate action. The most important steps to take are as follows:
- Provide as much information as possible: You should provide as much information as possible about the violations outlined in the letter. For example, if the problem was necessary as a temporary solution to a bigger safety issue, you can include this in your letter.
- Outline mitigation efforts: If you have taken steps to mitigate the problem, you should also include detailed information about this in your response. For example, if the citation indicated that you did not have proper fall protection on the site, you can describe how you now use safety harnesses and other safety gear to keep in compliance with OSHA standards.
- Provide proof of written policies: If you have an employee handbook or other written policies that address the situation, you should also include these within your response to the OSHA violation.
- Remain honest: Never be dishonest or deceptive when dealing with OSHA. Again, this agency simply wants to ensure that your workplace is safe. Always remain honest about the situation, your attempts to improve it, and any staff educational opportunities you have provided regarding the issue.
Our OSHA Attorney in Tampa Can Help After a Violation
At BBDG Law, our Tampa OSHA attorney understands the burdens you face that can make it challenging to stay ahead of OSHA regulations. We also know how to help to keep your business running effectively and efficiently. Call us today at (813) 221-3759 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to learn more.
