What does an employer need to do if OSHA observes a violation within 24 hours after the abatement date?

If OSHA observes a violation within 24 hours after the abatement date, the employer needs to reopen the case. This is because an observed violation indicates that the employer has not adequately addressed the issues that were previously identified. When an employer fails to comply with safety regulations by the specified abatement date, OSHA's follow-up inspection will often result in the need to take further action, which necessitates reopening the case to ensure that proper procedures are followed and that the workplace is brought into compliance.

The reopening of the case allows OSHA to reassess the situation and decide on the necessary enforcement actions, which could include fines or additional requirements for the employer. This process underscores the importance of not only addressing identified violations but also doing so within the required timeframe.