OSHA Rules for Small Businesses OSHA or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, treats small business owners differently than their larger counterparts. While this is typically good news there is still a lot to be aware of: Penalty Reductions: OSHA considers the size of the employer to determine penalties in the event of a violation. Proposed penalties are reduced by the following percentages in relation to the size of the business. • 60% penalty reduction may be applied if an employer has 25 employees or fewer • 40% for 26-100 employees • 20% for 101-250 employees Exemptions from Recordkeeping: OSHA has fewer recordkeeping requirements for small businesses. Employers with 10 or fewer employees are exempt from most OSHA recordkeeping requirements for recording and reporting occupational injuries and illnesses. • Consultation: Free help is offered to identify workplace hazards and establishing improved safety and health management systems. Employers in high-hazard industries or involved in hazardous operations receive priority. For the most part, OSHA consultation programs are run by state agencies and offer a variety of services. • Safety & Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) On-site recognition program recognizes exemplary employers who take special pride in providing a safe and healthful working environment for their employees and who meet specific program criteria. These are just some of the benefits offered to small business owners; others include: Voluntary Protection Programs, Compliance Assistance Specialists and an Alliance Program. The OSHA SMALL BUSINESS HANDBOOK is one of their most requested publications. This handbook helps small business owners meet the legal requirements to create and maintain safety and health management systems. Business owners can download the entire handbook by visiting www.OSHA.gov.