The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced its annual list of Top Safety Violations (Most Frequently Cited Standards) for Fiscal Year 2023. This data not only highlights prevalent safety issues but also serves as a guiding beacon for organizations aiming to mitigate risks and protect their workforce.
"Safety isn't just about compliance; it's about commitment,” says Shane Donald, Director of Safety at PFES. “A proactive approach to safety, where every potential hazard is identified and mitigated before it can cause harm, is what sets apart the leaders in workplace safety. It's about building a culture where safety is woven into the fabric of all our operations, and every team member is empowered and encouraged to speak up about safety concerns."
Fall protection has remained #1 on the top safety violations list for over a decade, signaling a broader concern about industry practices and safety culture. It's a stark reminder that despite advancements in equipment, technology and processes, the core element of workplace safety hinges on continual education, vigilance, and the unwavering commitment of every team member on a work site.
The ranked list of OSHA’s 10 Most Frequently Cited Standards for Fiscal Year 2023 include:
- Fall Protection—General Requirements (7,271 violations)
- Hazard Communication (3,213 violations)
- Ladders (2,978 violations)
- Scaffolding (2,859 violations)
- Powered Industrial Trucks (2,561 violations)
- Lockout/Tagout (2,554 violations)
- Respiratory Protection (2,481 violations)
- Fall Protection—Training Requirements (2,112 violations)
- Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment—Eye and Face Protection (2,074 violations)
- Machine Guarding (1,644 violations)
It's crucial for organizations to dissect each one of the top safety violations to understand the underlying risks and implement targeted strategies to counter them. For instance, the persistent high incidence of fall protection violations underscores an urgent need for comprehensive training programs and robust safety protocols.
Companies should rigorously examine their safety procedures, engage in open dialogue about safety concerns, invest in training and resources that empower their workforce, and foster an environment where safety measures are constantly reviewed and improved. This approach not only addresses compliance but fosters a safer, more productive working environment for all.
This list serves as a critical tool for organizations committed to safety excellence. It offers a roadmap for identifying and addressing the most pressing safety challenges in the workplace. By leveraging this information, companies can achieve compliance and drive meaningful improvements in safety culture.
For PFES, this list is a continued reminder to lead by example, advocating for a culture where every accident is preventable, and safety is non-negotiable. As a consultative partner dedicated to elevating the safety standards of every organization we work with, PFES is driven by a zero-incident philosophy, implementing a culture of safety that reduces incidents, enhances project integrity, and stringently follows all regulatory requirements.
