OSHA10- COMPLIANCE GUIDES
CGAP Safety: Top 10 OSHA Compliance Hub
Avoid $161,000 fines with ready-to-ship kits + free checklists.
#1 Fall Protection
7,271 citations
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#2 HazCom
3,213 citations
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#3 Ladders
2,820 citations
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#4 Scaffolding
2,866 citations
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#5 Machine Guarding
1,635 citations
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#6 Forklifts
1,757 citations
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#7 Fall Training
1,778 citations
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#8 Eye & Face PPE
2,074 citations
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#9 Lockout/Tagout
2,469 citations
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#10 Respiratory
1,608 citations
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Last updated: October 29, 2025 | OSHA FY 2023 Report
Code Compliance Hub
CGAP Safety: 80/20 Code Compliance Hub
Cover 78% of building & health code violations with ready-to-ship kits + free checklists.
#1 Blocked Egress
25,000+ citations
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#2 Electrical Systems
20,000+ citations
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#3 Improper Storage
18,000+ citations
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#4 Fire Extinguishers
15,000+ citations
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#5 Plumbing & Water
12,000+ citations
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#6 Food Temp Control
10,000+ citations
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#7 Cross-Contamination
9,000+ citations
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#8 Structural Defects
8,000+ citations
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#9 Zoning & Permits
7,000+ citations
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#10 Ventilation & HVAC
6,000+ citations
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Last updated: October 29, 2025 | ICC 2023 Report
Fall Protection Compliance Guide
#2 Code Violation: Fall Protection Failures
28,000+ citations • $2,000–$15,000 fine (2025)
Why Fall Protection Is the #2 Code Violation
Falls cause **36% of construction deaths** — missing guardrails, no harness, or untrained workers. OSHA issued **28,000+ citations** in 2023 — **$15K per worker**.
Top Triggers:
- No 42" guardrail or midrail
- Using ladder top 2 rungs
- No anchor point (≥5,000 lbs)
- No rescue plan posted
2025 Fines (OSHA 1926.501)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (no guardrail) | $2,000–$7,000 |
| Willful (no rescue plan) | $15,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- 42" top rail + midrail + toeboard
- Full-body harness + shock-absorbing lanyard
- Anchor ≥5,000 lbs
- 6-minute rescue plan
Avoid
- Floor holes ≥2" uncovered
- No 3 ft above landing on ladders
- No “FALL HAZARD” tape
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📄 Download Fall Protection Checklist (PDF)Hazard Communication Compliance Guide
#15 Code Violation: Hazard Communication (HazCom)
14,000+ citations • $1,000–$14,000 fine (2025)
Why HazCom Is the #15 Code Violation
Missing SDS, unlabeled containers, and untrained workers cause 32,000 chemical injuries yearly. OSHA issued 14,000+ citations in 2023 — **$14K per chemical**.
Top Triggers:
- SDS binder outdated or missing
- Secondary containers not labeled
- No annual HazCom training
- No spill kit or eyewash
2025 Fines (OSHA 1910.1200)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (missing SDS) | $1,000–$7,000 |
| Willful (no training) | $14,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- Current SDS for every chemical
- GHS labels on all containers
- Annual training + certificate
- Spill kit + weekly eyewash test
Avoid
- Unlabeled secondary containers
- Electronic-only SDS (no backup)
- No “SDS STATION” sign
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📄 Download HazCom Checklist (PDF)By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Ladder Safety Compliance Guide
#12 Code Violation: Ladder Safety Failures
15,000+ citations • $1,000–$14,000 fine (2025)
Why Ladder Safety Is the #12 Code Violation
Falls from ladders cause 20% of all construction fatalities. OSHA issued 15,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat violations lead to $14K per ladder.
Top Triggers:
- Wrong ladder type (Type II in heavy use)
- No 4:1 angle or 3 ft extension
- Standing on top 2 rungs
- Damaged ladder not tagged out
2025 Fines (OSHA 1926.1053)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (improper use) | $1,000–$7,000 |
| Willful (damaged in use) | $14,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- Type IA (300 lb) for heavy work
- 4:1 angle + 3 ft above landing
- Weekly inspection log
- Damaged ladders red-tagged
Avoid
- Metal near live power
- Overreaching
- No “LADDER INSPECTED” log
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Scaffolding Safety Compliance Guide
#7 Code Violation: Scaffold Safety Failures
20,000+ citations • $2,000–$15,000 fine (2025)
Why Scaffold Safety Is the #7 Code Violation
Improper planking, missing guardrails, and no competent person cause **2,000+ fall injuries yearly**. OSHA issued **20,000+ citations** in 2023 — **$15K per scaffold**.
Top Triggers:
- No mud sills or base plates
- Gaps >1" in planking
- No “SCAFFOLD TAG” system
- Climbing cross-braces
2025 Fines (OSHA 1926.451)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (no guardrails) | $2,000–$7,000 |
| Willful (no competent person) | $15,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- Mud sills + base plates
- Fully planked, gaps ≤1"
- Guardrails at 10 ft
- Daily “SCAFFOLD TAG” inspection
Avoid
- Climbing cross-braces
- No toeboards or debris nets
- Red tag missing
✅ Free Scaffold Safety Compliance Checklist Downloaded!
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Machine Guarding Compliance Guide
#11 Code Violation: Machine Guarding Failures
18,000+ citations • $1,000–$15,000 fine (2025)
Why Machine Guarding Is the #11 Code Violation
Removed guards, bypassed interlocks, and missing training cause 60% of OSHA amputations. OSHA issued 18,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat violations lead to $15K per machine.
Top Triggers:
- Guards removed for “convenience”
- No interlock on access doors
- Light curtains bypassed
- No weekly inspection log
2025 Fines (OSHA 1910.212)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (missing guard) | $1,000–$7,000 |
| Willful (bypassed) | $15,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- Fixed guards secured
- Interlocks on removable panels
- Weekly inspection log
- Annual training
Avoid
- Bypassed light curtains
- Missing “GUARD IN PLACE” labels
- No “REPORT LOOSE GUARD” system
✅ Free Machine Guarding Compliance Checklist Downloaded!
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Forklift Safety Compliance Guide
#13 Code Violation: Forklift Safety
16,000+ citations • $1,500–$15,000 fine (2025)
Why Forklift Safety Is the #13 Code Violation
Untrained operators, no pre-use checks, and unsafe charging cause 85 deaths + 34,000 injuries yearly. OSHA issued 16,000+ citations in 2023 — **$15K per truck**.
Top Triggers:
- Expired 3-year certification
- No daily pre-use log
- No seatbelt or horn use
- Charging without PPE/ventilation
2025 Fines (OSHA 1910.178)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (no training) | $1,500–$7,000 |
| Willful (unsafe refuel) | $15,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- 3-year operator certification
- Daily pre-use log on unit
- Seatbelt + horn at all times
- “CHARGING STATION” sign + PPE
Avoid
- Riders or elevated loads
- No “FORKLIFT CERTIFIED” badge
- Refueling near flame
✅ Free Forklift Compliance Checklist Downloaded!
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Eye & Face PPE Compliance Guide
#16 Code Violation: Eye & Face Protection Failures
18,000+ citations • $1,000–$14,000 fine (2025)
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Why Eye & Face Protection Is the #16 Code Violation
Missing PPE, damaged lenses, and no eyewash cause 20,000 eye injuries yearly. OSHA issued 18,000+ citations in 2023 — **$14K per worker**.
Top Triggers:
- No ANSI Z87.1 rated eyewear
- Side shields missing or broken
- Eyewash not tested weekly
- No “EYE PROTECTION REQUIRED” sign
2025 Fines (OSHA 1910.133)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (no PPE) | $1,000–$7,000 |
| Willful (no eyewash) | $14,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- ANSI Z87.1 rated + side shields
- Face shield over goggles (grinding)
- Eyewash: 15-min flow, 10-sec access
- Daily PPE inspection + training
Avoid
- Scratched or cracked lenses
- No “EYE WASH STATION” sign
- Storing PPE loose
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Lockout/Tagout Compliance Guide
#14 Code Violation: Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Failures
12,000+ citations • $1,500–$15,000 fine (2025)
Why LOTO Is the #14 Code Violation
Missing procedures, unverified energy, and untrained staff cause 10% of workplace fatalities. OSHA issued 12,000+ citations in 2023 — **$15K per violation**.
Top Triggers:
- No machine-specific LOTO procedure
- Energy not verified (machine starts during service)
- No group LOTO coordinator
- Locks removed by wrong person
2025 Fines (OSHA 1910.147)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (no procedure) | $1,500–$7,000 |
| Willful (bypassed) | $15,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- Machine-specific LOTO procedure
- Zero energy verified
- Annual audit + training
- “DANGER – LOCKED OUT” tags
Avoid
- Shared locks
- No shift change log
- Damaged devices in use
✅ Free Lockout/Tagout Compliance Checklist Downloaded!
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📄 Download LOTO Checklist (PDF)By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Respiratory Protection Compliance Guide
#10 Code Violation: Respiratory Protection Failures
15,000+ citations • $1,500–$15,000 fine (2025)
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Why Respiratory Protection Is the #10 Code Violation
No written program, expired fit tests, and dirty respirators cause **lung disease & OSHA shutdowns**. OSHA issued **15,000+ citations** in 2023 — **$15K per worker**.
Top Triggers:
- No annual fit test or medical eval
- N95 reused beyond shift
- No cartridge change schedule
- Respirators stored loose
2025 Fines (OSHA 1910.134)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Serious (no fit test) | $1,500–$7,000 |
| Willful (no program) | $15,000 + criminal |
OSHA Must-Haves
Required
- Written site-specific program
- Annual fit test + medical eval
- Seal check every use
- Cartridge change schedule posted
Avoid
- N95 reused after shift
- Storing in open air
- No “FIT TESTED” badge
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Blocked Egress Compliance Guide
#1 Code Violation: Blocked Egress
25,000+ citations • $5,000/day fine (2025)
Why Blocked Egress Is the #1 Code Violation
Merchandise, pallets, or trash in exit paths cause life-safety failures. NFPA & OSHA issued 25,000+ citations in 2023 — **$5K per day** until cleared.
Top Triggers:
- Less than 36" clear width
- No illuminated EXIT signs
- Emergency lights not tested
- Storage in stairwells
2025 Fines (NFPA 101 / OSHA 1910.37)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (narrow path) | $1,000–$5,000 |
| Critical (blocked exit) | $5,000 per day + closure |
Life Safety Code Must-Haves
Required
- 36" clear width to all exits
- Illuminated EXIT signs
- 90-min emergency light test
Avoid
- Merchandise in path
- Burned-out bulbs
- No monthly test log
✅ Free Egress Compliance Checklist Downloaded!
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📄 Download Egress Checklist (PDF)By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Electrical System Compliance Guide
#2 Code Violation: Electrical Hazards
25,000+ citations • $500–$5,000 fine (2025)
Why Electrical Is the #2 Code Violation
Improper wiring, missing GFCI, and extension cord abuse cause 51,000 fires yearly. NFPA issued 25,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat violations lead to stop-work orders.
Top Triggers:
- Missing GFCI in wet areas
- Double-tapped breakers
- Extension cords used as permanent wiring
- No 36" panel clearance
2025 Fines (NEC 110.26)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (GFCI missing) | $500–$1,500 |
| Critical (arc fault) | $2,000–$5,000 + shutdown |
NEC Must-Haves
Required
- GFCI in kitchen/bath/outdoor
- 36" panel clearance
- UL-listed cords only
Avoid
- Double-taps
- Daisy-chained cords
- Cords under rugs
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Improper Storage Compliance Guide
#3 Code Violation: Improper Storage
22,000+ citations • $500–$7,500 fine (2025)
Why Improper Storage Is the #3 Code Violation
Blocked sprinklers, fire lanes, and overloaded racking cause 70% of fire code failures. NFPA & IFC issued 22,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat violations trigger $7,500/day fines.
Top Triggers:
- Pallets under sprinklers (blocks water)
- Storage in mech/electrical rooms
- Vehicles in fire lanes
- Flammables >25 gal outside cabinet
2025 Fines (NFPA 13 / IFC 315)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (sprinkler blocked) | $500–$2,000 |
| Critical (repeat) | $3,000–$7,500 + shutdown |
Code Must-Haves
Required
- 18" below sprinklers
- “NO STORAGE” signs on mech doors
- 10 ft fire lane width
- Flammables in FM-approved cabinets
Avoid
- Pallets under pipes
- Boxes within 36" of panels
- Stack >12 ft without permit
✅ Free Improper Storage Compliance Checklist Downloaded!
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Fire Extinguisher Compliance Guide
#9 Code Violation: Fire Extinguisher Issues
14,000+ citations • $500–$5,000 fine (2025)
Why Fire Extinguishers Are the #9 Code Violation
Missing tags, blocked access, or expired units fail 80% of fire inspections. NFPA issued 14,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat failures trigger immediate closure.
Top Triggers:
- No monthly inspection
- Extinguisher >75 ft from work area
- No “FIRE EXTINGUISHER” sign
- Pin missing or pressure low
2025 Fines (NFPA 10)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (missing tag) | $500–$2,000 |
| Critical (blocked/inoperable) | $3,000–$5,000 + shutdown |
NFPA 10 Must-Haves
Required
- One per 3,000 sq ft
- 75 ft max travel
- Annual pro service
Avoid
- No inspection log
- Pin removed
- No sign above
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Plumbing & Water System Compliance Guide
#5 Code Violation: Plumbing & Backflow Issues
19,000+ citations • $500–$10,000 fine (2025)
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Why Plumbing Is the #5 Code Violation
Backflow, low hot water, and clogged drains cause health hazards & closures. UPC & DOH issued 19,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat violations lead to water shutoff.
Top Triggers:
- Hot water <120°F
- Missing backflow preventers
- Grease trap not cleaned
- No air gap on drains
2025 Fines (UPC 608 / FDA 5-203)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (low temp) | $500–$2,000 |
| Critical (backflow) | $5,000–$10,000 + shutoff |
Code Must-Haves
Required
- ≥120°F at hand sinks
- RPZ tested annually
- 1" air gap on drains
Avoid
- Cross-connections
- Clogged floor sinks
- No weekly flush
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Food Temperature Control Compliance Guide
#4 Code Violation: Food Temperature Abuse
20,000+ citations • $500–$5,000 fine (2025)
Why Food Temp Is the #4 Code Violation
Improper hot/cold holding causes 1 in 6 foodborne illnesses. FDA issued 20,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat violations lead to closure.
Top Triggers:
- Cold food >41°F
- Hot food <135°F
- Cooling >2 hrs to 70°F
- No calibration log
2025 Fines (FDA Food Code 3-501)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (temp out of range) | $500–$2,000 |
| Critical (repeat) | $3,000–$5,000 + closure |
FDA Must-Haves
Required
- Hot ≥135°F / Cold ≤41°F
- Cooling: 165→70 in 2 hrs
- Daily temp log
Avoid
- Room-temp thawing
- No thermometer calibration
- No 6-hr final <41°F
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Cross-Contamination Compliance Guide
#7 Code Violation: Cross-Contamination
9,000+ citations • $300–$2,000 fine (2025)
Why Cross-Contamination Is the #7 Code Violation
Raw foods touching ready-to-eat causes 48 million illnesses yearly. FDA issued 9,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat violations lead to closure.
Top Triggers:
- Raw meat stored above produce
- Using same cutting board without cleaning
- No color-coded tools (red = raw, green = veg)
- Improper handwashing or glove use
2025 Fines (FDA Food Code)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (raw over RTE) | $300–$800 |
| Critical (repeat) | $1,000–$2,000 + closure |
FDA Food Code Must-Haves
Required
- Raw below/away from RTE
- Color-coded boards & knives
- Handwashing every task change
Avoid
- Shared towels/utensils
- Raw chicken drips
- No “RAW MEAT” labels
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Structural Defects Compliance Guide
#6 Code Violation: Structural Defects
18,000+ citations • $2,000–$50,000 fine (2025)
Why Structural Defects Are the #6 Code Violation
Notches, missing bracing, and improper anchorage cause collapse risks. ICC & DOB issued 18,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat failures lead to stop-work + demolition orders.
Top Triggers:
- Joist holes >1/3 depth
- No fireblocking in concealed spaces
- Missing hold-downs at garage portals
- Anchor bolts >6 ft apart
2025 Fines (IRC R502 / IBC 2308)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (notch violation) | $2,000–$10,000 |
| Critical (load path fail) | $25,000–$50,000 + demo |
IRC Must-Haves
Required
- ½" anchor bolts every 6 ft
- Fireblocking every 10 ft
- Hold-downs at portals
Avoid
- Notches in middle 1/3
- No “DO NOT CUT” labels
- Temporary bracing removed early
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Zoning & Permit Compliance Guide
#10 Code Violation: Zoning & Permit Issues
15,000+ citations • $1,000–$25,000 fine (2025)
Why Zoning & Permits Is the #10 Code Violation
Unapproved signs, setbacks, or missing C of O trigger stop-work orders. DOB issued 15,000+ citations in 2023 — fines escalate to $25K/day for non-compliance.
Top Triggers:
- Expired permits not displayed
- Signage over height/area limits
- ADA parking not compliant
- Landscaping too close to foundation
2025 Fines (IBC / Local Ordinance)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (expired permit) | $1,000–$5,000 |
| Critical (illegal use) | $10,000–$25,000 + closure |
Code Must-Haves
Required
- C of O posted & current
- ADA spaces striped + signed
- Downspouts ≥5 ft from foundation
Avoid
- Unapproved signage
- Trees <10 ft from building
- No variance documentation
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📄 Download Zoning Checklist (PDF)By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025
Ventilation & HVAC Compliance Guide
#8 Code Violation: Poor Ventilation
12,000+ citations • $500–$10,000 fine (2025)
Why Ventilation Is the #8 Code Violation
Grease buildup, missing makeup air, and blocked fire dampers cause fire hazards & mold. IMC & NFPA issued 12,000+ citations in 2023 — repeat failures lead to closure.
Top Triggers:
- Hood exhaust <400 CFM
- No “EXHAUST ON” light
- Fire dampers not tested
- Filters never changed
2025 Fines (IMC 507 / NFPA 96)
| Type | Fine |
|---|---|
| Priority (grease buildup) | $500–$2,000 |
| Critical (fire damper fail) | $5,000–$10,000 + shutdown |
Code Must-Haves
Required
- 400+ CFM over cookline
- “EXHAUST ON” indicator light
- Fire dampers tested annually
Avoid
- Blocked returns
- No makeup air
- Storage near ducts
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By CGAP Industries | Updated: October 29, 2025