Jacob Sitman, FLB Shareholder and Chair of the Employment Law and Labor Relations Practice, recently contributed his insights as one of sixteen “top legal experts” asked to provide a “list of critical information you should be aware of in the event you receive an OSHA citation.” His advice was published in the Intelivert article “16 Legal Tips: Handling OSHA Citations the Right Way”.
The article notes that the experts weighed in with “simple, actionable tips that can help you craft your legal strategy and directly affect the outcome of your OSHA interaction.” Mr. Sitman has extensive experience dealing with OSHA laws across a number of industries.
In the article, he shared the following tip:
Eliminate possibility alleged hazard could cause injury
Regardless of whether you believe you have been cited justifiably or wrongly, you need to take action and do your best to eliminate the possibility that the alleged hazard could cause an employee injury. (1) Promptly investigate and determine the extent of the allegedly unsafe condition. (2) Keep an open mind when considering possible abatement methods. (3) Consider hiring an expert in the field to conduct the investigation or audit and make abatement recommendations. (4) Implement a documented plan of abatement and periodic review of compliance. By taking a proactive approach to your citation, you may find that OSHA will be more accommodating and that there are relatively easy ways to make even a safe workplace safer.
If you need assistance with OSHA citations and compliance, please contact Jacob Sitman.
