Effective August 1, 2016, OSHA fines will increase dramatically. The maximum fine amount per violation has not increased since 1990. President Obama signed into law a “catch-up adjustment” that increases maximum fine amounts by 78% (i.e., the difference between the October 2015 and October 1990 Consumer Price Index). Thereafter, the maximum fine increases will be tied to inflation based on the Consumer Price Index. The examples listed on OSHA’s website include the following: prior to August 1, 2016, the maximum fine for “Serious Other-Than-Serious Posting Requirement” was $7,000 but effective August 1, 2016 will be $12,471. Likewise, the maximum fine for “Willful or Repeated” was $70,000 but effective August 1, 2016 will be $124,709. OSHA will issue revisions to its Field Operations Manual by August 1.
