OSHA Repeat & Willful Violations, Explained
trending_up The 10x classifications
Not all OSHA violations are priced the same. A Serious violation tops out around $16,550, but a Repeat (the same or a substantially similar standard cited again) or a Willful violation (knowing, or with plain indifference) jumps to as much as $165,514 each — a 10x multiplier on the very same hazard.
history Why Subpart D items repeat
The classification is set by OSHA, and walking-working-surface items are common Repeat candidates because the same spalled walkway or uncertified anchor tends to resurface. A prior final citation is what arms the Repeat designation — OSHA generally looks back five years, though courts have allowed longer. These maximums are also adjusted for inflation in most years.
shield How to never see a Repeat
Avoiding the multiplier comes down to two things: correct the hazard completely, and keep it corrected. La Gala self-performs durable repairs and pairs them with a recurring inspect-and-maintain plan, so a closed citation stays closed and never escalates into Repeat territory.
Got this on a citation — or want to get ahead of it?
Our PE partner certifies it and our crews fix it, under one contract. Start with a free, no-obligation assessment, or build a custom compliance plan in two minutes.