Final answer:
Employers who don't comply with Florida's workers' compensation laws face fines, business suspension, and criminal charges. OSHA enforces standards by issuing fines based on several factors, and employers can challenge citations whereas workers can only contest deadlines.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under Florida's workers' compensation laws, the penalties for non-compliance can include several measures. Employers who fail to adhere to the laws may face fines, a potential suspension of business operations, and even criminal charges. These laws require employers to contribute to state-run funds that provide benefits to employees injured on the job. Should an inspection reveal violations, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) can issue citations and fines. The agency takes into account multiple factors such as the violation's severity, the business size, demonstrated good faith, and any previous violations when determining the penalty.
OSHA's fines for serious violations can reach up to $7,000, while repeat or willful violations may command fines up to $70,000. While employers have the right to contest citations, workers can only dispute the deadline for resolving the issues cited. Appeals of citations can be heard by the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (OSHRC), an independent entity. Non-compliance with workers' compensation requirements and OSHA standards can thus lead to significant legal and financial repercussions for employers.