Now is the perfect time to plan your annual workplace health and safety initiatives. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides guidelines to help businesses reduce risks, prevent injuries, and create a safer work environment. This guide will keep you informed regarding OSHA safety updates, penalties, risk prevention strategies, and targeted safety programs.

2025  OSHA Penalty Adjustments

On January 15, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor announced updates to OSHA’s civil penalties based on cost-of-living adjustments. While avoiding fines is important, the real focus should be on preventing workplace hazards and protecting employees.

• Serious and other-than-serious violations: Maximum penalty increased from $16,131 to $16,550 per violation.
• Willful or repeated violations: Maximum penalty increased from $161,323 to $165,514 per violation.

Understanding these penalties highlights the importance of proactive safety measures. Visit OSHA Penalties page and read the Final Rule for full details.

OSHA's Focus on High-Risk Workplace Hazards

OSHA's National Emphasis Programs (NEPs) and Local Emphasis Programs (LEPs) help target the most common causes of workplace injuries and illnesses, ensuring businesses can take preventive action.

• National Emphasis Programs (NEPs): These address hazards such as silica exposure, heat illness prevention, trenching and excavation safety, and more.
• Local Emphasis Programs (LEPs): These are region-specific programs. In Region 1 (which includes Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut), OSHA has local emphasis programs focusing on fall hazards in construction, shipbreaking operations, and the tree and landscaping industry.

Employers should stay informed about these programs to strengthen workplace safety efforts and reduce risks for their teams.

Learn More

For more details on OSHA’s requirements:

• Contact Beacon Mutual at safety@beaconmutual.com for workplace safety guidance or visit Beacon’s Safety Services page.
• Visit OSHA’s resources: OSHA Penalties, National Emphasis Programs (NEPs), and Local Emphasis Programs (LEPs).
• Read our previous blog post on OSHA annual and periodic recurring requirements for more background information.