• Rules. The federal OSH Act governs safety and health in Rhode Island private sector workplaces. Rhode Island has adopted penalties for public (state, county, and local government offices and operations) sector workplaces that are stricter and, in some cases, less strict than federal penalties.
• Administration and enforcement. OSHA administers safety and health rules in private sector workplaces. DLT administers and enforces occupational safety and health rules in public sector workplaces, which include construction contractors hired by government entities.
TABLE 1: VIOLATIONS OF SAFETY LAWS
TABLE 1: VIOLATIONS OF SAFETY LAWS| Prohibited Act | Penalty |
| OSHA Public Sector: Willful or repeat violation that results in death or serious injury to employees | Civil:RI Gen. Laws 28-20-18:Up to $10,000 each violation |
| OSHA Public Sector: Serious violation | Civil:RI Gen. Laws 28-20-18:Up to $1,000 each violation |
| OSHA Public Sector: Violation other than serious | Civil:RI Gen. Laws 28-20-18:Up to $1,000 each violation |
| OSHA Public Sector: Failure to correct a violation | Civil:RI Gen. Laws 28-20-18:Up to $1,000 each day the violation continues |
| OSHA Public Sector: Violations of posting requirements | Civil:RI Gen. Laws 28-20-18:Up to $1,000 for each violation |
| OSHA Public Sector: Giving advance notice of an inspection | Criminal:RI Gen. Laws 28-20-18:Up to $1,000 and/or 1 year's imprisonment |
| OSHA Public Sector: Making false statements, representations, or certification | Criminal:RI Gen. Laws 28-20-18:Up to $10,000 and/or 1 year's imprisonment |
| OSHA Public Sector: Interfering with officials in the performance of their duties | Criminal:RI Gen. Laws 28-20-18:Up to $500 and/or 1 year's imprisonment |
The federal ...
State Requirements
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| Type | Title |
|---|---|
| Checklists | Checklist: Do you have what it takes to argue your affirmative defense? |
| Forms | Notice of Alleged Health or Safety Hazards |
| Posters | Whistleblowers Are Protected (Cal/OSHA, PDF) |
| White Papers | Your guide to COVID-19 enforcement |