Department of Labor

Assessment and Collection of Public Employee Safety and Health Penalties

The Department of Labor conducts inspections to ensure that the workplaces of non-federal public employers meet health and safety standards. When workplaces fail to meet these standards, the Department may impose financial penalties on the employers. We audited selected aspects of the Department's assessment and collection of these penalties. We found that decisions to reduce penalties can be better documented and the management information system can be improved. In addition, a mechanism is needed for collecting penalties from State agencies that refuse to pay the penalties, such as the Department of Correctional Services. We also found that, while the Department continues to inspect workplaces and assess penalties where appropriate, it is giving more emphasis to helping employers so that they can meet the health and safety standards.

For a complete copy of Report 96-S-78 click here.
For a copy of the 90-day response click here.