OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewIntroduction to OSHAMedium
A small construction company has been cited by OSHA for a serious violation after an inspection. The company owner believes the citation is inaccurate and the proposed penalty is excessive. Within what timeframe must the employer officially contest an OSHA citation?
- A60 calendar days from the date of the inspection.
- B7 working days from receipt of the citation.
- C30 calendar days from receipt of the citation.
- D15 working days from receipt of the citation.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 15 working days from receipt of the citation.
Employers have 15 working days from the date they receive a citation to formally contest it with OSHA, otherwise, the citation becomes a final order.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This timeframe is incorrect; the clock starts from receipt of the citation, not the inspection date, and the number is different.
- B. This timeframe is too short; the correct period is 15 working days.
- C. This timeframe is incorrect; OSHA specifies working days, not calendar days, and the number is different.
Contesting OSHA Citations
Employers have a limited timeframe to formally challenge an OSHA citation or proposed penalty.
- Must be done within 15 working days.
- Submitted to the OSHA Area Director.
- Leads to informal conference or review by OSHRC.
Memory trick: Fifteen working days to challenge, or the citation's final, no second chance.