What is the deadline for appealing an OSHA citation?

The correct answer is that the deadline for appealing an OSHA citation is 15 working days. This timeframe is specified in OSHA regulations to ensure that employers have a reasonable opportunity to contest the citation and any penalties associated with it. When a citation is issued, it includes information on how to appeal, emphasizing the importance of prompt action to preserve the employer's right to challenge the citation's validity or the proposed penalties.

Appealing within this 15-working-day window is vital, as failing to do so may result in the citation becoming a final order, which means the employer cannot contest it further. Understanding the timeline for an appeal can help employers develop an appropriate response strategy, including gathering evidence, consulting legal advice, and preparing their case against the citation. This deadline is a critical component of the administrative process governed by OSHA to maintain workplace safety and compliance.