Most workplace injuries don’t come from rare, catastrophic events. They often occur in familiar moments — climbing a ladder, servicing equipment, moving materials, or working at height on a busy day. When pace and routines speed up, even the strongest safety practices can lose focused attention.

That reality is reflected in this year. For the 15th straight year, fall protection leads the list, followed by hazards tied to everyday work across construction, manufacturing, and healthcare environments.

Taken together, these citations paint a clear picture of where risk continues to surface in routine work — not because safety is ignored, but because it can be challenged by changing conditions, time pressure, and familiarity.

Focused on Where Risk Shows Up

1. Fall Protection – 5,914
2. Hazard Communication – 2,546
3. Ladders – 2,405
4. Lockout/Tagout – 2,177
5. Respiratory Protection – 1,953
6. Fall Protection Training Requirements – 1,907
7. Scaffolding – 1,905
8. Powered Industrial Trucks – 1,826
9. Eye and Face Protection – 1,665
10. Machine Guarding – 1,239

These patterns align with broader national injury trends. Recent federal labor that falls, overexertion, and contact with equipment continue to account for a significant share of serious workplace injuries and days away from work — disrupting operations and affecting workers across industries.

Where Focus Becomes Action

Organizations that see progress treat this list as a working guide. They stay close to how tasks are performed, refresh training as conditions change, and reinforce expectations before issues arise. That might mean revisiting ladder setup and inspections after schedules shift, reinforcing lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance periods, or re-emphasizing fall protection as crews rotate or job sites evolve.

That same approach shapes 91şÚÁĎÍř’s engagement across the safety landscape — including active participation alongside organizations like the (NSC), where emerging research, real-world data, and field-tested solutions help inform how safety is practiced — not just documented.

“OSHA’s Top 10 doesn’t surprise many of us—but it does remind us where risk continues to surface,” said Ashley Parker, Risk Management Manager at 91şÚÁĎÍř. “Most hazards emerge in everyday work, not isolated events. When leaders pair national insights with what front-line workers are actually experiencing, prevention becomes proactive instead of just compliant.”

Looking Ahead

OSHA’s Top 10 list offers clarity — not as a compliance exercise, but as a reminder of where focused attention delivers the greatest return. Each category represents an opportunity to strengthen habits, protect people, and support steady operations. When prevention is built into how work actually happens, these insights help organizations focus their efforts where they matter most.

91şÚÁĎÍř’s Risk Management experts work alongside agents and policyholders to translate these insights into practical, site-specific action—drawing from field experience, national safety research, and like those outlined in OSHA’s construction and general industry regulations

To learn how 91şÚÁĎÍř’s Risk Management team can help strengthen your safety program, reach out to your 91şÚÁĎÍř Risk Management expert.

Numbers like these remind us that workplace safety is more than a regulatory checkbox. It is a shared responsibility, a moral obligation, and an investment in the well-being of every person who steps onto a jobsite or into a facility each day. This is the driving force behind the , taking place August 11 – 17, 2025.

Why This Week Matters

The urgency of addressing workplace safety is clear when we look at broader health statistics. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there are 40 million emergency department visits due to injuries, with a significant percentage relating to workplace incidents. And nearly 6% of adults are sidelined by injuries that limit their daily activities over a three-month period. These aren’t just numbers; they represent real people whose lives and livelihoods are drastically altered by workplace accidents.

Preparing for the Unexpected

This year’s focus—Emergency Preparedness and Response—underscores the importance of having strong, actionable plans in place before a crisis strikes. Emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time: natural disasters, fires, hazardous spills, or unexpected mechanical failures. A well-practiced plan can mean the difference between swift recovery and catastrophic loss.

Through OSHA’s free resources, organizations can:

• ASSESS and improve response plans to ensure workers know what to do in a crisis.
• CONDUCT realistic drills that prepare teams for evacuation, shelter-in-place scenarios, or first-aid emergencies.
• STRENGTHEN communication strategies so vital information reaches every worker quickly and clearly.
• ENGAGE leadership and employees together, fostering trust and shared responsibility for safety.

Investing in safety yields significant returns, both economically and in human terms. For every dollar invested in safety programs, businesses can between $4 to $6 from reduced injury rates and lower Workers’ Compensation costs, according to OSHA’s estimates. These activities not only protect lives but also reinforce a culture where workers feel valued, heard, and confident in their safety.

Commit to Safety

While Safe + Sound Week shines a spotlight on workplace safety, true impact comes when businesses embed these principles into daily operations. three core elements of an effective safety and health program:

1. Leadership Commitment: When executives and managers visibly champion safety, it sets the tone for the entire organization.
2. Worker Participation: Employees often know hazards best; involving them in solutions builds stronger, safer processes.
3. Hazard Identification and Control: assessments and timely fixes prevent accidents before they happen.

Every injury prevented is a life changed. Every workplace improvement is a step toward ensuring everyone returns home safely each day.

Looking Ahead

Initiatives like Safe + Sound Week remind us of the ongoing importance of prioritizing workplace safety. By committing to comprehensive safety strategies, businesses not only protect their workforce but also enhance their operational efficiency and sustainability.

Creating a culture of safety goes beyond compliance—it involves education, awareness, and continuous improvement. For more resources on risk management and safe equipment operation, visit our Risk Management page, or contact a member of our Risk Management Team. Let’s make workplace safety a priority not just this week but every week, showcasing that safety is more than a policy—it’s a cornerstone of responsible business practice.

The Need for Enhanced Safety Measures

The urgency of addressing workplace safety is clear when we look at broader health statistics. For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there are 40 million emergency department visits due to injuries, with a significant percentage relating to workplace incidents. And nearly 6% of adults are sidelined by injuries that limit their daily activities over a three-month period. These aren’t just numbers; they represent real people whose lives and livelihoods are drastically altered by workplace accidents.

Engaging in Safe + Sound Week

Health and safety programs play a vital part in any business, but especially in industries where workers are at higher risk of injury or illness. 91şÚÁĎÍř encourages our policyholders in construction, manufacturing, healthcare and other industries to participate in Safe + Sound Week. There are several ways to get involved:

Participate in Safety Events: OSHA’s national event lists both virtual and in-person activities that promote workplace safety, providing excellent opportunities for teams to engage and learn.

Enhance Safety Programs: Utilizing the comprehensive provided by OSHA, including toolkits and best practices, businesses can build robust safety programs that go beyond mere compliance.

Recognition of Efforts: Companies that actively participate in these activities can receive a from OSHA, acknowledging their commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.

Investing in safety yields significant returns, both economically and in human terms. For every dollar invested in safety programs, businesses can between $4 to $6 from reduced injury rates and lower Workers’ Compensation costs, according to OSHA’s estimates.

Looking Ahead

Initiatives like Safe + Sound Week remind us of the ongoing importance of prioritizing workplace safety. By committing to comprehensive safety strategies, businesses not only protect their workforce but also enhance their operational efficiency and sustainability.

Creating a culture of safety goes beyond compliance—it involves education, awareness, and continuous improvement. For more resources on risk management and safe equipment operation, visit our Risk Management page, or contact a member of our Risk Management Team. Let’s make workplace safety a priority not just this week but every week, showcasing that safety is more than a policy—it’s a cornerstone of responsible business practice.

Mandatory Seatbelt Usage

One of the non-negotiable rules set by OSHA is the mandatory use of seat belts by forklift operators. Non-compliance not only leads to substantial fines but also increases the risk of fatal accidents. In fact, OSHA statistics indicate that due to equipment tip-overs. With machines often weighing over 9,000 lbs, the simple act of buckling up can be lifesaving for operators.

Training, Certification, and Cleanliness

A thorough review of the organization’s safety manual should be a priority during any inspection. It is crucial to ensure that all forklift operators are properly trained and certified. Equally important is the cleanliness and orderliness of the operating environment. Floors should be clear of debris that could obstruct pedals or cause operators to trip, and the cabs should not be used for storing unrelated materials as outlined in .

Routine Inspections and Hazard Analysis

OSHA mandates daily or pre-shift inspections of all powered industrial trucks to maintain safety standards. This regular check, as detailed in is designed to assess the operational readiness of equipment, ensuring that everything from brakes to warning labels is in optimal condition. Additionally, conducting Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) is essential for identifying and mitigating risks associated with forklift operations.

Best Practices for Safe Operation

Adhering to best practices is key to ensuring safety. Operators should always:

• Drive in reverse only when necessary and safe.
• Keep both hands and shoes dry to prevent loss of control.
• Follow all designated traffic and safety signage.
• Ensure the forklift is turned off and secured when not in use.
• Always wear a seatbelt and conduct a safety check before movement.
• These operational guidelines are crucial for maintaining a safe working environment and are supported by OSHA’s comprehensive safety training programs.

Looking Ahead

Creating a culture of safety goes beyond compliance—it involves education, awareness, and continuous improvement. Empower your team with the necessary tools and knowledge to operate safely and efficiently every day. For more resources on risk management and safe equipment operation, visit our Risk Management page or contact 91şÚÁĎÍř Risk Management at riskmanagement@amerisure.com.

The annual list, announced at this year’s National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo, is determined from worksite inspections throughout the year and aims to alert and inform employers and safety professionals about frequent citations and violations to help prevent future reoccurrences.

The top 10 Most Frequently Cited Workplace Violations for 2023, :

• Fall Protection – General Requirements
• Hazard Communication
• Ladders
• Scaffolding
• Powered Industrial Trucks
• Lockout/Tagout
• Respiratory Protection
• Fall Protection – Training Requirements
• Personal Protective and Lifesaving Equipment – Eye and Face Protection
• Machine Guarding

OSHA will release more information on each hazard in the December issue of magazine.

Prevent Safety Violations Today

Advancements in workplace protections, paired with a robust safety program, can help identify and prevent violations and reinforce worker safety. Learn more about how connected wearables, virtual reality, and observational training programs can enhance operations and assist in controlling losses.

Some of the key takeaways from the annual recognition to help protect what matters most include:

PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS

Develop a Comprehensive Emergency Plan: Create a that outlines procedures for emergencies, such as fires, natural disasters and medical incidents. This plan should include evacuation routes, designated assembly points and clear communication channels.

Regular Training and Drills: Conduct and emergency drills to familiarize employees with evacuation procedures, first aid protocols and the use of safety equipment.

Establish Communication Protocols: Implement a that enables swift and effective communication during emergencies. Ensure employees know how to access emergency contact information and stay informed.

Medical and First Aid Readiness: Have well-stocked first aid kits readily available and ensure that designated employees are trained in . Consider organizing training in CPR and basic medical response.

Regular Plan Review and Updates: Periodically review and update your to account for changes in personnel, facilities and potential risks. Regularly communicate updates to employees.

LOOKING AHEAD

By blending preparedness with strategic insurance coverage, businesses can be equipped to endure challenges and ensure the safety of your workforce and the resilience of your operations.

91şÚÁĎÍř offers a range of insurance solutions tailored to the specific needs of your company. By partnering with 91şÚÁĎÍř, you can create a comprehensive risk management strategy that includes both preventive measures and financial safeguards. Contact our risk management team for a range of tailored and inventive solutions designed to fortify your financial stability and uphold a secure and thriving work environment for your business.

Beginning January 1, 2024, the rule requires businesses with 100 or more employees in certain high-hazard industries, to submit the data – of which they are already required to keep on file – to the appropriate OSHA department annually, including:

• Form 300-Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses
• Form 301-Injury and Illness Incident Report

These reports will be submitted in addition to the current requirements of providing Form 300A-Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses, .

For accuracy, the companies will be required to include their legal company name when electronically submitting illness and injury data. Some of the collected data will be published by OSHA for viewing by the general public. This practice will support the sharing of information about the organizations’ safety practices and ultimately help reduce losses related to injuries and illness, according to OSHA.

The new requirement will expand on amendments determined by OSHA last year that require specific establishments in certain high-hazard industries to electronically submit information from their Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses and Injury and Illness Incident Report.

To learn more about the rule and submission expansion, read the .

Reduce Losses Through Innovative Safety Programs

Our Risk Management team collaborates with you to analyze your potential risks and deliver customized solutions that help ensure your company is a safe workplace while simultaneously supporting your operational business goals. To learn more, reach out to RiskManagement@91şÚÁĎÍř.com.

Preventable injuries, commonly known as “accidents,” are the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, . Join us in observing National Safety Month as we work together to highlight the leading causes of preventable injury and death in order to create healthier, safer environments at home and in the workplace.

Promoting Safety in the Workplace

This year, the following weekly topics will be highlighted during National Safety Month:

Week 1 – : By prioritizing workplace safety, employers can stay prepared and create a positive and productive environment for their employees. This includes implementing robust safety protocols, providing proper training, and maintaining equipment. Organizations can also use this month to review safety policies, conduct risk assessments, and engage employees in safety initiatives to ensure a safer work environment for everyone.

Week 2 – : It may come as a surprise that the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death is falls. In 2021, 44,486 people died in falls at home and at work, according to . For working adults, depending on the industry, falls can be the leading cause of death. Whether working from a ladder, roof or scaffolding, it’s important for employers to plan ahead, assess the risks and be sure to use proper, well-maintained equipment. Observational safety programs can also help to reduce the risk of falls at work.

Week 3 – : Every year, thousands become sick from occupational heat exposure and, in some cases, these injuries can be fatal. To avoid hazardous heat exposure, employees should:

• Consume adequate fluids (water and sport drinks)
• Work shorter shifts or split shifts
• Take frequent breaks
• Quickly identify any heat illness symptoms
• Wear proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

Week 4 – : Even in familiar surroundings, employers need to be looking for dangers in the workplace. Keeping an eye out for hazards and performing routine building safety measures can help organizations identify and avoid them before an injury occurs.

Moving Forward

As a leading provider of property and casualty insurance, 91şÚÁĎÍř aligns with the principles of National Safety Month by offering comprehensive risk management solutions and insurance products tailored to specific industry needs—all of which enhance workplace safety, minimize potential losses, and protect your bottom line. This month serves as a reminder that investing in safety is not just a legal obligation, but a responsible choice that benefits everyone involved.

According to , the purpose of this policy change is to “make its penalties more effective in stopping employers from repeatedly exposing workers to life-threatening hazards or failing to comply with certain workplace safety and health requirements.”

What to Know

The agency’s new measures aim to be important enforcement tools to both deter employers from disregarding their responsibilities to protect workers, and to ensure compliance with OSHA standards and regulations. There are two main components to be aware of:

1. OSHA regional administrators and area office directors now have the authority to cite certain types of violations as “instance-by-instance citations” for cases where the agency identifies “high-gravity” serious violations of OSHA standards specific to certain conditions where the language of the rule supports a citation for each instance of non-compliance. These conditions include respiratory protection, falls, lockout/tagout, machine guarding, permit-required confined space, trenching and for cases with other-than-serious violations specific to recordkeeping. The purpose of this change is to ensure that OSHA personnel are applying increased citations when needed to discourage non-compliance.
2. OSHA has issued a reminder to its regional administrators and area directors of their authority not to group violations, and instead cite them separately in order to “more effectively encourage employers to comply with the intent of the Occupational Safety and Health Act.”

OSHA’s new guidance covers enforcement activity in the general industry, agriculture, maritime, and construction industries, and is currently set to become effective March 27. For establishments covered by the OSHA Electronic Reporting of Injuries and Illnesses requirement, information should also be submitted to OSHA electronically by March 2. To review the requirements or to check if you are covered, visit the OSHA Injury Tracking Application (ITA) .

Looking Ahead

It remains vital to regularly check to stay abreast of regulatory updates and remain in compliance. Employers are also encouraged to organize routine companywide training, review OSHA recordkeeping practices, perform regular audits, and keep proper documentation of all training, violations, and safety-related disciplinary actions to optimize operations and stay on top of industry changes.

91şÚÁĎÍř’s authorized OSHA outreach trainers conduct on-site classes for supervisors and key subcontractors, including safety and health principles to help meet OSHA requirements. To learn more, visit our Risk Management page.

To that end, in the summer of 2022, John embarked on an exciting new venture – the pursuit of a Fundamentals of Welding certificate at Scott Community College in his native Iowa. “It was a little intimidating at first because, truthfully, I’m not even that handy around the house,” John admits, jokingly. “But I thought it was a unique opportunity to build a new skillset that will ultimately be helpful in underwriting gas and welding business.”

As recommended by John’s supervisor, Senior Vice President of 91şÚÁĎÍř Programs, Rob Sedlak, coursework started with a 10-hour OSHA class followed by six hands-on welding classes, complete with a virtual reality welding machine to help students get acclimated to various welding processes, joint positions, and other situations they may face in a welding workshop.

“I was open-minded to the idea, and as Rob and I talked about it more, I realized how valuable this training could be,” said John. Donning all the necessary PPE – including a welding mask, jacket, gloves, and boots for grinding, plasma cutting, and welding, John balanced his regular workdays at 91şÚÁĎÍř with daytime and evening classes in a welding workshop.

“It was like learning a whole new language,” he explains. “I learned all of the lingo, like how to read blueprints and directions from engineers. Moving forward, this expertise will be valuable in helping AMP craft the best solutions for our client’s needs.”

One place where John was able to showcase his expertise was at the annual GAWDA (Gases & Welding Distributors Association) Convention this past October. “I believe I was the only insurance underwriter there with first-hand knowledge and experience,” John says. “It gives us credibility and a real edge when talking to potential new customers to show that 91şÚÁĎÍř can offer something that other companies simply don’t have. Not only that, it highlights that we’re a team of dedicated experts who go the extra mile to continue to transform the insurance experience.”

What’s next for John?  He’ll be able to leverage this knowledge along with his Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation and prior experience. “­I’d also like the opportunity to continue to strengthen my new skillset,” he explains. “I’m looking into getting a part-time welding job with my brother in law’s business—even if it’s just 10-15 hours a week—to stay informed and engaged.”

He goes on: “AMP has always differentiated itself by working to truly understand the unique risk characteristics of a particular industry in order to provide innovative insurance solutions designed to outperform industry standards. I’m confident that my newfound knowledge will serve this mission well.”

To learn more about all that 91şÚÁĎÍř Programs has to offer, visit our 91şÚÁĎÍř Programs page.