OSHA standards apply to all places of employment in the state with the exception of those under the exclusive jurisdiction of the federal government. All places of employment are subject to inspection to ascertain compliance with published Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Rules and Regulations. Inspections are scheduled following the guidelines of an administrative inspection scheduling plan approved by the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration and in accordance with established priorities. Those priorities are: (1) imminent danger conditions; (2) catastrophes/fatalities/ serious injuries; (3) employee complaints; (4) target industry inspections; and (5) follow-up inspections. If violations are found, a citation will be issued specifying abatement dates for all violations. A monetary penalty may also be assessed. Criminal penalties including imprisonment and fines also may be assessed for knowing or willful violations. EMPLOYER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES An employer‘s rights and responsibilities under the Act include, but are not limited to, the following: • An employer must furnish to employees conditions of employment that are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious injury. • Employers are entitled to participate in the development, revision or revocation of OSHA standards by commenting on proposed standards, participating in hearings concerning standards, or by requesting the development of a new standard. • An employer may request a variance from the requirements of a particular OSHA standard if the employer is unable to meet the mandates of that standard and wishes to use alternative means of compliance. • Employers are entitled to protection of trade secrets or other legally privileged communications. • Employers must post the “ Safety and Health Protection on the Job ” poster in their places of employment. Posters may be obtained from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Contact information provided in the Resource Directory section of this Guide. • Employers must provide to their employees all necessary protective equipment required by OSHA standards at no cost to the employee. • An employer who receives a citation and/or proposed monetary penalty following an OSHA inspection may contest the citation or penalty by submitting a Notice of Contest to the Commissioner of the Department of Labor and Industry. • Employers may obtain technical assistance from OSHA by writing or calling any of the area offices listed in the Resource Directory section of this Guide or by accessing the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry or federal OSHA on the internet. Employers can be fined up to $25,000 if a violation of state standards, rules, or orders results in the death of an employee.
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