“OSHA Devalues Worker’s Life Worth”

The Department of Labor has updated penalty guidelines to enhance worker safety, support small businesses, and eliminate workplace hazards. However, these changes coincide with a significant reduction in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) budget and staffing, leading to fewer workplace hazard inspections. The new guidelines decrease penalties for non-compliance with health and safety standards, particularly for small businesses and those with no history of serious violations. Experts warn that these reductions, coupled with fewer inspections, could lead to increased worker illnesses, injuries, and fatalities. OSHA’s penalties for endangering workers’ health and lives are already low compared to other federal violations. The new policy changes extend fine reductions to businesses with up to 25 employees and those that have never been inspected. Critics argue that these changes remove the deterrent for violating worker safety and health laws, potentially making workplaces more hazardous.