Plain-English guide to the most important OSHA standards from 29 CFR 1910 (General Industry) and 29 CFR 1926 (Construction). Search, browse and understand what each standard requires.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes safety and health standards under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The two most referenced parts are 1910 (General Industry) and 1926 (Construction).
Each standard follows a consistent numbering scheme. For example, 1910.147 means Part 1910 (General Industry), Section 147 (The Control of Hazardous Energy / Lockout-Tagout). Standards numbered 1910.1000 and above cover toxic and hazardous substances.
OSHA penalties are adjusted annually for inflation. As of 2026, maximum penalties per violation are approximately $16,550 for serious violations and $165,514 for willful or repeat violations. Failure to abate can result in penalties of up to $16,550 per day beyond the abatement date.
Twenty-two states and territories operate their own OSHA-approved state plans that must be at least as effective as federal OSHA. Some states (such as California, Washington and Oregon) have standards that exceed federal requirements.
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