Final answer:
The maximum OSHA fine for a first serious violation is $7,000, while repeat or willful violations can incur a fine of up to $70,000. Businesses can contest citations, and workers can request inspections without retaliation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Failure to comply with OSHA standards could lead to various penalties, depending on the severity and nature of the violation. For a first violation that is classified as serious, OSHA's maximum penalty is $7,000. However, for repeat or willful violations, the fines can be much steeper, reaching up to $70,000. Factors such as the gravity of the violation, the size of the business, the employer's good faith, and the history of previous violations all play roles in determining the proposed penalties.
Employers have the right to contest OSHA citations, which are then reviewed by the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (OSHRC). Conversely, workers have the ability to file complaints and request inspections if they believe there is a serious hazard or a breach of standards, without fear of retaliation from their employer.