Louisiana Contractors License Practice Exam

What defines an OSHA "other than serious" violation?

1. A violation with no relation to safety

2. A violation likely to cause significant physical harm

3. A violation that may not lead to physical harm

4. A violation that is recognized as a fatal hazard

The correct answer is: A violation that may not lead to physical harm

An OSHA "other than serious" violation is defined as a violation that has the potential to affect safety or health, but is not likely to result in death or serious physical harm. This type of violation indicates that while there may be issues present, they do not pose a direct and significant threat to health and safety, distinguishing them from more severe types of violations. The key element of this designation is its focus on the likelihood of an actual risk of serious injury or fatality. Rather than identifying hazards that are serious or could lead to catastrophic results, an "other than serious" violation is one where the implications for safety, while important, are not immediately dangerous or severe. This understanding helps OSHA and employers prioritize compliance efforts and address concerns accordingly, maintaining a safer working environment while recognizing that not all violations carry the same level of risk.