Top 5 Most Cited OSHA Standards in Facilities Management (and How to Avoid Them)

The Full Story

When it comes to facilities management, safety isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a daily priority. From maintaining HVAC systems to overseeing janitorial crews and managing contractors, facility managers juggle a complex range of responsibilities. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations are designed to keep workplaces safe, yet many organizations fall short of compliance.

At Kind Safety Consulting, we help clients prevent costly violations and, more importantly, protect their people. Below are the top 5 most commonly cited OSHA standards in facilities management—and what you can do to avoid them.

​

1. 1910.1200 – Hazard Communication

Why it matters: Facilities often involve the use of chemicals—cleaning agents, maintenance supplies, paints, solvents, and more. OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom) ensures employees know what they’re working with and how to stay safe.

​

Common violations:

• Lack of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

• Unlabeled chemical containers

• Failure to train employees on chemical hazards

How to avoid it:

• Maintain an up-to-date SDS library

• Ensure all secondary containers are labeled

• Conduct annual HazCom training

2. 1910.134 – Respiratory Protection

Why it matters: Whether dealing with mold remediation, chemical fumes, or confined spaces, respiratory hazards are common in facilities management. If respirators are required, employers must have a written respiratory protection program.

​

Common violations:

• No medical evaluations or fit tests

• Using respirators without a written program

• Inadequate training or equipment maintenance

How to avoid it:

• Evaluate respiratory hazards annually

• Develop and maintain a written respiratory protection plan

• Train and fit-test all affected employees

3. 1910.147 – Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout)

Why it matters: Equipment maintenance and repair pose serious risks if energy sources (electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, etc.) aren’t properly controlled. OSHA's Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) standard prevents sudden startup or energy release during service.

​

Common violations:

• Employees performing maintenance without LOTO procedures

• No written energy control program

• Failure to train affected and authorized employees

How to avoid it:

• Create written procedures for all relevant equipment

• Conduct regular LOTO training and audits

• Clearly label energy isolation points

4. 1910.305 – Electrical Safety (Wiring Methods, Components, and Equipment)

Why it matters: Improper electrical installations or damaged wiring are not only OSHA violations—they're fire and electrocution hazards. Facilities often overlook electrical safety during renovations or temporary fixes.

​

Common violations:

• Improper use of extension cords

• Exposed wiring or open junction boxes

• Non-compliant conduit or outlet installations

How to avoid it:

• Inspect electrical systems regularly

• Replace temporary wiring with permanent solutions

• Ensure all repairs meet the National Electrical Code (NEC)

5. 1910.132 – Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Why it matters: Facilities staff perform diverse tasks—painting, welding, plumbing, electrical work, and more. Proper PPE is essential, yet often inconsistently provided or used.

​

Common violations:

• Failure to assess hazards and determine PPE needs

• Not providing or enforcing PPE use

• Lack of PPE training

How to avoid it:

• Conduct a PPE hazard assessment

• Provide task-specific PPE

• Train employees on proper use, care, and disposal

Final Thoughts

OSHA citations aren’t just regulatory headaches—they often highlight real risks that can lead to injuries, downtime, or worse. Facilities management professionals play a vital role in maintaining a safe work environment, but they can’t do it alone.

At [Your Company Name], we help facility managers build strong safety programs that are practical, compliant, and proactive. From customized training to safety audits and compliance consulting, our team is here to support your success.

Let’s Work Together