We know you're trying to run a safe operation. No one wants to see their employees or family members sustain injuries -- or worse -- as they perform crucial functions around the farm. But accidents do happen, and OSHA has started paying closer attention to agriculture operations. And once you're on OSHA's radar, the likelihood of receiving fines for unsafe practices goes up significantly.
Something you may not be aware of is that, beginning in 2016, OSHA will be increasing fines significantly for the first time since 1990. The Federal Civil Liberties Inflation Adjustment Act formerly exempted OSHA from adjusting their fines to account for inflation, but new legislation signed into law on Nov. 2 by President Obama overturns this exemption. Violators can now expect to pay fines that have increased up to 80 percent.
If you haven't take the time to conduct a safety audit of your operation, this would be a great time to do so. We know you care about your employees, but we also know your bottom line is important, too. Shoring up your risky practices is the most effective way to keep OSHA away -- and to improve the productivity of your operation.
