Top 10 OSHA Violations to Be Aware of in 2025

OSHA violations are more than just compliance issues—they put lives at risk and jeopardize your company’s reputation. By learning from past trends and addressing the most common violations, you can create a safer workplace and avoid devastating penalties. Below, we review the top OSHA violations based on 2024 and 2023 data, highlighting actionable steps and practical takeaways to help you stay ahead in 2025.

This guide is packed with insights to help you tackle compliance challenges with confidence while focusing on building proactive safety systems throughout the workplace.

Why OSHA Violations Matter

Each OSHA violation represents a potential injury or fatality that could have been prevented. Addressing these violations ensures:

• Worker Safety: A protected team is a productive one.
• Cost Savings: Avoid costly penalties, medical expenses, and downtime.
• Competitiveness: Businesses with stellar safety track records win more contracts and build trust with clients.

Accurate recordkeeping is a critical part of OSHA compliance. Learn more about the latest OSHA log submission requirements here.

With that said, here are the top OSHA violations cited during Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, showcasing recurring issues and proven ways to prevent them.

The Top 10 OSHA Violations in 2025

(Based on 2024 + 2023 Data)

1. Fall Protection – General Requirements (1926.501)

Fall protection violations continue to dominate OSHA’s list for the 14th year, with 6,307 citations in 2024 (source). Improper fall protection equipment and inadequate training are often to blame, particularly in construction where workers face significant height-related hazards.

Prevention Steps:

• Conduct site inspections to identify all fall risks.
• Provide OSHA-compliant fall protection gear like guardrails, safety nets, and harnesses.
• Establish regular training programs and ensure all workers participate. 

Pro tip: Check out our fall protection training kit to help you keep your team safe.

2. Hazard Communication (1910.1200)

Hazard Communication had 2,888 violations in 2024, where missing labels, outdated Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and untrained workers led to preventable risks (source). These OSHA violations frequently occur in industries handling hazardous chemicals.

Prevention Steps:

• Store updated SDS in accessible locations for all employees.
• Train workers to understand the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for chemical labeling.
• Conduct routine audits to ensure all chemicals are properly labeled.

Proactive Benefit: Our HazCom training kit streamlines compliance while equipping your team with the knowledge to handle hazardous chemicals safely and confidently.

3. Ladders (1926.1053)

With 2,573 violations in 2024, ladder misuse remains a significant issue, usually resulting from damaged equipment or improper use (source).

Prevention Steps:

• Inspect ladders before each use for structural integrity.
• Train employees on correct usage, such as maintaining a three-point contact position.
• Remove and replace damaged ladders immediately.

Economic Insight: Ladder-related fines range from $12,000 to $20,000, not including medical costs for injured workers. 

4. Respiratory Protection (1910.134)

Respiratory protection had 2,470 violations in 2024, reflecting gaps in fit-testing, poor PPE selection, and inadequate programs (source).

Prevention Steps:

• Perform annual fit-testing for all respirator users.
• Provide industry-specific respirators for dust, chemicals, or fumes.
• Maintain a written respiratory protection program that’s regularly updated.

Trend to Note: Silica dust exposure has led to stricter industry oversight. Staying ahead with proper respirators mitigates risks. Check out our Respiratory Training Kit for more info.

5. Lockout/Tagout (1910.147)

Failure to control hazardous energy resulted in 2,443 violations in 2024, often leading to severe injuries (source). This standard is heavily cited in the manufacturing and industrial sectors.

Prevention Steps:

• Draft clear, written lockout/tagout procedures and provide comprehensive employee training.
• Conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance.
• Invest in high-quality lockout/tagout devices to prevent accidental start-ups.

Safety Insight: Proper lockout/tagout programs not only reduce injuries but also improve equipment life.

6. Powered Industrial Trucks (1910.178)

This category saw 2,248 violations in 2024, stemming from inadequate forklift training and poor vehicle maintenance (source).

Prevention Steps:

• Certify operators through OSHA-approved training programs.
• Perform daily pre-use inspections for industrial trucks.
• Designate safe zones to prevent collisions between trucks and workers.

Technology Advantage: GPS-based fleet tracking systems ensure operator accountability and enhance worksite safety.

7. Scaffolding (1926.451)

1,873 violations in 2024 were tied to scaffolding hazards, largely caused by improper assembly or overloading (source).

Prevention Steps:

• Use qualified personnel to design and assemble scaffolding.
• Regularly inspect load-bearing components for wear.
• Train workers on construction, hazard identification, and safe use.

Proactive Benefit: Predictive maintenance schedules help identify points of failure before they occur, reducing risks. Check out our Scaffolding Training Kit to help you get started.

8. Fall Protection – Training Requirements (1926.503)

There were 2,050 citations in 2024 for improper or missing fall safety training (source). These citations highlight the need to raise awareness and skills among employees.

Prevention Steps:

• Develop competency-based fall prevention training programs.
• Verify participation and track completion records.
• Update training sessions regularly to incorporate new safety techniques.

Training Boost: Effective training kits provide clear, actionable guidance that keeps workers engaged while improving their understanding and retention of critical safety protocols.

9. Eye and Face Protection (1926.102)

With 1,814 violations in 2024, missing or inadequate protective gear exposes workers to severe injuries (source).

Prevention Steps:

• Equip workers with proper PPE like impact-resistant goggles or face shields.
• Reinforce PPE use as mandatory during high-hazard tasks.
• Inspect all equipment monthly to ensure durability and compliance.

Impact Insight: Companies with lower PPE-related violations often see fewer injury leave claims, boosting workflow efficiency. Our PPE Training Kit can help your efforts to maintain a safe work environment.

10. Machine Guarding (1910.212)

Machine guarding violations totaled 1,541 in 2024, showing a need for better protection against moving machine parts (source).

Prevention Steps:

• Install rigid, OSHA-compliant guards on all machinery.
• Replace defective guards immediately.
• Provide machine-specific training for operators, emphasizing their safety.

Safety Stat: Workers are 80% less likely to sustain injuries when machinery is properly guarded. Our Machine Guarding Training Kit is an excellent choice to help you get started on your path to a safer workplace. 

Take Control of Workplace Safety

Every OSHA violation on this list highlights preventable gaps in workplace safety programs. By addressing these common pitfalls with training, advanced technology, and routine audits, your team can remain productive while steering clear of costly citations.

Act Now:

Prioritizing OSHA compliance and workplace safety isn’t just about meeting requirements—it’s about protecting your team and ensuring your business thrives. By taking proactive steps now, you can avoid costly violations and create a safer, more efficient work environment. Equip your team with the tools they need to succeed. Explore our customizable training kits today and take the first step toward worry-free compliance and a safer workplace. 

Get started now—your team’s safety depends on it.