Abatement

What It Means

When OSHA issues a citation, it includes an abatement date — the deadline by which the employer must correct the hazardous condition. Abatement periods vary depending on the nature and complexity of the hazard, ranging from immediately upon receipt of the citation to several months for hazards requiring engineering controls or structural modifications. The employer must certify in writing that abatement has been completed and describe the specific actions taken. If the hazard involves movable equipment, the employer must also provide documentation to affected employees. Failure to correct a cited hazard by the abatement date can result in a Failure to Abate notice, which carries additional penalties of up to $16,131 per day the violation continues beyond the deadline. Employers can petition OSHA for a Petition for Modification of Abatement (PMA) if they need additional time due to factors beyond their reasonable control, such as supply chain delays for safety equipment or the need for specialized engineering work. Effective abatement is critical because failure to correct hazards is one of the factors that can lead to repeat violations in future inspections.

Frequently Asked Questions