The High Cost of Non-Compliance: What OSHA Inspections Could Mean for Your Business

Written By Nate Fredrickson

At Paravel RM, we understand that workplace safety isn’t just a moral obligation—it’s a legal one. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces standards designed to protect employees from harm. But when those standards are ignored or misunderstood, the consequences can be swift and costly.

What Happens During an OSHA Inspection

OSHA inspections are often unannounced and triggered by:

  • Employee complaints

  • Workplace injuries or fatalities

  • Industry targeting based on risk profiles

Once on-site, a compliance officer will:

  • Conduct an opening conference to explain the inspection scope

  • Review safety records and training documentation

  • Perform a walkthrough of the facility

  • Interview employees

  • Hold a closing conference to discuss findings and potential citations

Potential Fines for Non-Compliance

OSHA categorizes violations into several tiers, each carrying significant financial penalties:

Violation Type Description Maximum Fine (2025)

Other-than-Serious - Administrative issues, unlikely to cause serious harm - $16,550 per violation

Serious - Hazards with substantial risk of injury or death - $16,550 per violation

Willful or Repeated - Intentional disregard or repeated offenses - $165,514 per violation

Failure to Abate - Not correcting a cited hazard by the deadline - $16,550 per day

Beyond fines, OSHA citations can lead to:

  • Reputational damage with clients and employees

  • Legal action from affected workers or families

  • Operational disruptions, including temporary shutdowns

How Paravel RM Can Help

We specialize in proactive risk management strategies that help businesses:

  • Prepare for OSHA inspections

  • Identify and correct compliance gaps

  • Train staff on safety protocols

  • Maintain proper documentation and reporting

Whether you're facing an inspection or want to prevent one, Paravel RM offers tailored solutions to keep your workplace safe and compliant.

For more information, contact Nathan Fredrickson at 605-759-8778 or nate@paravelrm.com.

Nate Fredrickson
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