When a serious industrial accident occurs in Ohio, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is often called in to investigate. While OSHA plays a critical role in identifying violations and promoting workplace safety, it’s important to understand that their reports may not tell the whole story, especially when it comes to your rights as an injured worker or a grieving family member.
At Harris Law, we have represented many clients who assumed that the OSHA report would contain all the facts they needed for a successful claim. Unfortunately, relying solely on OSHA’s findings can be a costly mistake.
1: OSHA Investigations Are Limited in Scope
OSHA’s primary focus is determining whether the employer violated workplace safety regulations and not assigning full legal responsibility or pursuing compensation for victims. Their investigations often do not explore all possible causes of an accident, especially when multiple parties or complex machinery are involved.
For example, OSHA may cite a company for failing to provide proper training but overlook the role of a defective piece of equipment made by a third-party manufacturer. In that case, additional legal claims could be available that OSHA’s report won’t uncover.
2: Third-Party Liability Is Often Overlooked
Industrial accidents frequently involve third-party contractors, equipment suppliers, maintenance crews, or other vendors. OSHA typically focuses only on the employer-employee relationship and may ignore other liable parties.
At Harris Law, we evaluate every possible angle, including third-party negligence and product liability claims, to maximize your recovery.
3: Important Evidence May Be Missed or Excluded
While OSHA inspectors are trained professionals, their resources and time are limited. Inspections can be delayed, and crucial evidence may be lost or altered before they arrive on-site. Additionally, OSHA doesn’t always have access to internal documents, witness interviews, or private contractor records that a skilled attorney can uncover through litigation.
4: Reports Can Be Influenced by Employer Cooperation
Employers often cooperate with OSHA during investigations, but that doesn’t mean they always tell the whole truth. Employers may downplay unsafe conditions, shift blame onto workers, or manipulate records. OSHA inspectors may not always catch these tactics, especially if workers fear retaliation and are hesitant to speak freely.
An experienced industrial plant injury attorney can subpoena records, depose witnesses, and bring the full truth to light in ways OSHA cannot.
5: You Deserve More Than Just a Violation Citation
Even if OSHA issues a citation or fine, that alone doesn’t result in compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering. To pursue full and fair compensation, you need a legal advocate who understands how to build a comprehensive case based on evidence beyond what’s in the OSHA file.
Contact an Experienced Ohio Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an industrial accident, don’t wait for an OSHA report to determine your next step. Your rights and potential for recovery extend far beyond OSHA’s findings.
Contact Harris Law in Ohio today for a free consultation at info@harrislawohio.com. We’ll review your case, conduct a thorough investigation, and help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does an OSHA report prove who is at fault for an industrial accident?
No. OSHA reports are designed to identify workplace safety violations, not to determine full legal liability. They may miss third-party involvement, defective equipment, or other factors that could be critical to your case.
2. Can I file a legal claim even if OSHA has already investigated the accident?
Yes. You can pursue a personal injury or wrongful death claim regardless of OSHA’s findings. An attorney can gather evidence and hold all responsible parties accountable, not just your employer.
3. Why might OSHA overlook third-party liability in an industrial accident?
OSHA primarily focuses on the employer-employee relationship. Contractors, equipment manufacturers, or other vendors may not be fully examined, which can leave significant liability questions unanswered.
4. What should I do if I believe important evidence was missed in the OSHA investigation?
You should contact an experienced industrial accident lawyer immediately. Lawyers can subpoena records, depose witnesses, and conduct their own investigations to uncover evidence OSHA may have missed.
5. If OSHA cites or fines my employer, do I automatically receive compensation?
No. Citations and fines go to regulatory penalties, not to injured workers. You still need to pursue your own claim to recover for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
6. When should I speak with an attorney after an industrial accident?
You should contact an attorney as soon as possible after an industrial accident. Early legal involvement helps preserve evidence, identify all responsible parties, and protect your right to full compensation beyond OSHA’s findings.
