OSHA’s Top 10 Most Cited Violations of 2025

Every year, OSHA releases its list of the most frequently cited standards, offering a clear snapshot of where safety programs break down across U.S. jobsites. For the construction industry, this list is more than a compliance update. It highlights recurring hazards that continue to put workers at risk and organizations under enforcement pressure.

OSHA’s FY 2025 data show little change in enforcement priorities. Falls, equipment safety and training gaps continue to dominate inspection results. The takeaway is consistent. The most common citations are also the most preventable.

Below is a breakdown of OSHA’s top-cited violations of 2025, and what construction leaders should take away as they plan safety initiatives for the year ahead.

OSHA’s Top 10 Violations for FY 2025

1. Fall Protection – General Requirements

6,992 violations

Fall protection remains OSHA’s most cited standard. Unprotected edges, uncovered floor openings and improper use of guardrails or harnesses continue to drive enforcement actions across construction jobsites.

Falls remain the leading cause of construction fatalities. Prevention requires more than equipment availability. It requires planning, supervision and enforcement. For additional guidance, see Hylant’s construction site safety insights.

2. Hazard Communication

3,010 violations

Hazard communication citations often result from missing safety data sheets, incomplete labeling or workers not understanding chemical hazards on-site. Construction firms frequently underestimate the documentation and training OSHA expects in this area.

Related Reading: Broader safety program alignment is covered in Effective Strategies for Optimizing Workplace Safety Practices.

3. Ladders

2,842 violations

Common ladder violations include improper selection, incorrect setup and use beyond design limits. Many ladder incidents occur during short-duration tasks where safety steps are skipped. Ongoing training and clear job site expectations reduce this risk.

4. Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout)

2,562 violations

Lockout and tagout violations occur when equipment is serviced without fully isolating energy sources. While often associated with manufacturing, construction sites with heavy equipment and temporary power face the same exposure. Strong procedures help prevent catastrophic injuries and OSHA penalties.

5. Respiratory Protection

2,294 violations

Respiratory protection citations often involve missing written programs, a lack of medical evaluations or improperly fitted equipment. Construction exposures include silica, dust, welding fumes and chemical vapors.

Related Reading: PPE selection and fit across the workforce are critical considerations, explored further in Equitable Safety: Ensuring Proper Personal Protective Equipment for Women in Construction

6. Scaffolding

2,286 violations

Scaffold violations commonly involve improper assembly, missing guardrails, inadequate access or failure to perform inspections. Scaffold failures can result in severe multi-person incidents. Integrating scaffold checks into daily site routines helps reduce both injuries and enforcement risk.

7. Fall Protection, Training Requirements

2,216 violations

OSHA frequently cites employers for inadequate or undocumented fall protection training even when equipment is present. Training must be role-specific, refreshed regularly and documented. This violation often accompanies citations for general fall protection failures.

8. Powered Industrial Trucks

2,150 violations

Forklifts and powered industrial trucks present a significant risk on construction sites and in material yards. Common issues include untrained operators, unsafe operating conditions and poor maintenance practices. Formal operator training and evaluations are required even for occasional use.

9. Eye and Face Protection

1,965 violations

Eye and face injuries remain a persistent issue across construction jobsites. Citations often stem from missing PPE or protection that does not match the hazard. Regular hazard assessments help ensure appropriate selection and use.

10. Machine Guarding

1,498 violations

Machine guarding violations occur when rotating parts, blades or pinch points are left exposed. Temporary jobsite setups are frequent sources of citations, especially when guards are removed for speed or convenience.

What This Means for Construction Leaders

OSHA’s 2025 data reinforce a familiar pattern. Enforcement continues to focus on core hazards that cause serious injuries and fatalities, especially falls and equipment-related risks. Construction organizations that address these areas proactively often see fewer OSHA citations, lower injury-related costs and stronger safety cultures.

Hylant works with construction firms to align safety programs, insurance strategies and risk management efforts. Learn more about our construction industry focus.

Additional safety resources include:

• Understanding OSHA Violations
• Digging Safely: Your Guide to Trench Safety Stand Down Week
• Safety Practices to Keep Your Employees Protected
• Effective Strategies for Optimizing Workplace Safety Practices

The above information does not constitute advice. Always contact your insurance broker or trusted advisor for insurance-related questions.