Learn from Others' Mistakes
Every year, OSHA publishes its list of most-cited violations. Construction consistently dominates this list. Learn what inspectors look for and how to stay compliant.
The Top 5 Construction Violations
#1: Fall Protection (1926.501)
Year after year, the most cited violation.
Common issues:
- No fall protection at 6 feet
- Improper anchor points
- Missing guardrails on scaffolds
- Inadequate hole covers
Prevention:
- Conduct fall hazard assessments
- Provide proper equipment
- Train all workers
- Document everything
#2: Hazard Communication (1910.1200)
Chemical safety failures are widespread.
Common issues:
- Missing Safety Data Sheets
- Unlabeled containers
- No employee training
- Inadequate hazard communication program
Prevention:
- Maintain complete SDS library
- Label all chemical containers
- Train workers on new chemicals
- Update program annually
#3: Scaffolding (1926.451)
Scaffold accidents cause severe injuries.
Common issues:
- Incomplete planking
- Missing guardrails
- Improper construction
- Exceeding load limits
Prevention:
- Use competent person oversight
- Follow manufacturer guidelines
- Inspect before each shift
- Train all users
#4: Respiratory Protection (1910.134)
Airborne hazards require proper protection.
Common issues:
- Wrong respirator type
- Improper fit testing
- Missing medical evaluations
- Inadequate training
Prevention:
- Assess airborne hazards
- Select appropriate respirators
- Conduct annual fit tests
- Document medical clearances
#5: Ladders (1926.1053)
Simple equipment, serious injuries.
Common issues:
- Using damaged ladders
- Improper setup angles
- Missing 3-point contact
- Wrong ladder for the job
Prevention:
- Inspect before each use
- Train on proper use
- Provide right ladder for task
- Remove damaged ladders
The Pattern of Non-Compliance
Most violations share common causes:
- Lack of written procedures: No documentation means no consistency
- Inadequate training: Workers don't know the requirements
- Poor supervision: No one enforcing the rules
- Missing inspections: Problems not caught until OSHA arrives
Building a Compliance-First Culture
Start with Documentation
Written procedures establish expectations:
- Clear guidelines for each hazard
- Specific responsibilities assigned
- Enforcement procedures defined
Train Continuously
One-time training isn't enough:
- Regular refresher courses
- Topic-specific toolbox talks
- Hands-on demonstrations
Inspect Regularly
Find problems before OSHA does:
- Daily site walkthroughs
- Weekly formal inspections
- Monthly safety meetings
A comprehensive safety plan addresses all five top violations. SafetyPlanPro generates plans that cover fall protection, hazard communication, scaffolding, respiratory protection, and more. Start protecting your team and your business today.