The Definition of Abatement (OSHA Abatement)

Definition of Abatement (OSHA Abatement)

Abatement is the action an employer takes to eliminate or correct a workplace hazard identified in an OSHA citation, completed by the abatement date listed on that citation. Under OSHA's abatement verification rule, 29 CFR 1903.19, the employer must also certify to OSHA that each cited violation has been corrected, inform affected employees, and, for many violations, submit documentation such as photographs, invoices or training records that prove the fix is in place.

Key Facts About Abatement

• Governing rule: 29 CFR 1903.19, Abatement Verification.
• Certification deadline: within 10 calendar days after the abatement date for each cited item.
• Employee notice: the employer must post the certification and documents near the cited hazard or tag cited movable equipment.
• Extensions: an employer that has made good-faith efforts but cannot finish on time can file a Petition for Modification of Abatement (PMA).
• Failure to abate: uncorrected violations can draw additional penalties for each day they continue past the abatement date.

Example of Abatement

After receiving a citation for an unprotected mezzanine edge, a distribution center installs a compliant guardrail system before the abatement date, photographs the installation, and sends OSHA a signed abatement certification with the photos within ten days. A copy is posted at the mezzanine stairs so employees can see the hazard was corrected.

How to Manage OSHA Abatement

1. Log each citation item with its abatement date and a named owner.
2. Correct the hazard using the hierarchy of controls, not a temporary workaround.
3. Collect evidence such as photos, purchase orders, work orders and training sign-in sheets.
4. Submit the certification and any required documentation to the OSHA area office.
5. Post the certification or tag the equipment so employees are informed.
6. Confirm the fix stays in place, since OSHA may conduct a follow-up inspection.

Related Terms

• OSHA Citation
• Corrective Action
• OSHA
• Non-Compliance

Frequently Asked Questions: Abatement

What happens if a hazard isn't abated by the deadline?

OSHA can issue a notice of failure to abate, with additional penalties for each day the violation continues, and may schedule a follow-up inspection. If more time is genuinely needed, the employer should file a Petition for Modification of Abatement before the abatement date passes.

Does contesting a citation pause the abatement deadline?

Generally, yes. When an employer files a good-faith notice of contest, the abatement period for the contested items does not begin until a final order is issued. Items that are not contested must still be corrected by their original dates.

What if the permanent fix takes months?

For longer abatement periods, OSHA may require an abatement plan and periodic progress reports. Employers should protect workers with interim measures until the permanent correction is complete and verified.