Labor Department Expands Workplace Hazard Penalty Reductions

The US Department of Labor will decrease penalties for some small employers and companies who immediately take steps to address workplace hazards.

The DOL Monday updated guidance on penalty and debt collection procedures for the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration, saying it will minimize the burden on small businesses and prompt hazard abatement by employers. Businesses with 25 employees or fewer can get OSHA penalties reduced by 70% and businesses that correct a flagged hazard immediately can get a 15% reduction, the DOL announced.

“Small employers who are working in good faith to comply with complex federal laws should ...