The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) raised the financial penalties it will assess against businesses that violate safety protocols. The new amounts went into effect on Jan. 15, 2021.

Why Did OSHA Raise Its Penalties?

Federal law requires OSHA to adjust penalties for violations every year, effective no later than Jan. 15. The adjustments are meant to keep pace with inflation so that the amounts assessed against businesses for violations will continue to serve as a deterrent. OSHA makes the adjustments using a cost-of-living adjustment multiplier that is based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers.

How Much Will Businesses Have to Pay for Violating OSHA’s Rules?

OSHA levies a penalty against a business based on the type and severity of a violation. OSHA also considers whether a violation was willful and whether it was a one-time occurrence or was repeated on several occasions over a period of time. Sometimes OSHA does not impose a financial penalty for a minor violation, while in other cases, it assesses a penalty that may range from hundreds of dollars to tens of thousands.

How Can You Comply with OSHA’s Regulations?

If you own or manage a business, it’s essential that you understand and follow OSHA’s rules. Even if your employees work in an environment that is generally safe, such as an office, you must still adhere to some safety guidelines. Failure to do so may result in steep financial penalties. Familiarize yourself with OSHA’s rules, if you haven’t already, and review OSHA’s website regularly to learn about any changes that may apply to your company.

Where Can You Order Workplace Safety Equipment?

1^st Aid Supplies provides first aid kits and cabinets that include a variety of items that can be used to treat minor injuries. Having a supply of bandages, gauze, ointment, eye wash, over-the-counter pain relievers, and other products available can allow employees to take care of injuries that require immediate treatment, but that don’t require a visit to a hospital or to a doctor. 

Depending on the type of business you run, your employees may need personal protective equipment (PPE) to do their jobs safely. That may include gloves, face shields, masks, respirators, goggles, hard hats, hearing protection, and ergonomic equipment. 

Giving workers access to first aid supplies and protective equipment can minimize the amount of time they have to spend away from work, which can maintain your company’s productivity and protect your bottom line. Following OSHA’s rules can also help you avoid costly financial penalties. Review OSHA’s regulations to make sure that your company is complying. If you need to purchase new first aid kits or safety equipment or have to replace items that have been used or have worn out, place an order with 1^st Aid Supplies today.