When should citation be an issue? Can the employer challenge a citation?

Answer 1

When an inspection leads to the discovery of a violation of a standard under the act, the employer is issued either a written citation describing the particular nature of the violation or a notice of de minimis violations. If a citation is issued, the employer must be notified by certified mail within a reasonable time, but in no event longer than six months after the identification of the violation, of any proposed penalty to be assessed. The employer then has fifteen working days within which to notify OSHA that it intends to contest the citation or the proposed penalty. If the employer does not contest, the citation becomes final and is not subject to appeal or review. If the employer challenges the citation, the penalty assessed, or the period for abatement, a hearing is held before an administrative law judge, who makes findings of fact and conclusions of law that either affirm, modify, or vacate the citation.?