ABSTRACT
One of the first “OMG” moments in the career of many safety and health professionals is when the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) citations are received and opened. Safety and health professionals are often involved throughout the inspection process, including in the opening conference, the compliance inspection, and the closing conference; however, the actual opening of the envelop containing the codified proposed violations and the proposed monetary penalties can be a shock. The safety and health professional is usually aware of the potential violations and has often taken steps to correct the alleged violations identified during the compliance inspection; however, receipt of the citations has started the 15-working-day clock to appeal the citations. What can and should the safety and health professional recommend to the management team to address these alleged violations and proposed penalties?
