Question: Why did OSHA adjust its penalty reduction percentages?

Answer: OSHA updated its penalty structure with small businesses in mind. We want to ensure OSHA penalties appropriately take into account an employer's size, its efforts to quickly abate hazards, and its OSHA history. For many of these employers, having the right tools can make all the difference, not only in achieving compliance but also in creating safer and healthier workplaces for everyone. That's why we've adjusted our penalty structure to make it easier for employers, including small businesses, to invest resources in finding and fixing hazards, as well as enhancing their safety and health programs. These changes are designed to help employers address safety issues more quickly, come into compliance faster, and minimize the financial burden. As part of our broader effort to support safe, healthy workplaces, we want to meet employers where they are and put resources where they matter most to better protect workers.