Government Shutdown: How it Affects the Construction Industry Part 3

In part one of our article, we focused on what a government shutdown is, past shutdowns, and America’s most recent shutdown. In the second article, we talked about how a shutdown affects the construction industry and the consequences of a shutdown. In this final section, we will talk about its effects on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

How OSHA is Effected

A government shutdown can have a major impact on various health and safety agencies including OSHA. At the national, regional, and area office levels, staffing would be affected at in different ways. Key personnel would be required to work ensuring that OSHA can continue to operate on matters of emergencies which involve human life and property protection. This includes emergency response to fatalities, imminent dangers, and issuing citations for serious open cases, for example.

The shutdown of 2013 is a reminder of the impact a shutdown can have on OSHA operations. The government shutdown led to the furlough and suspension of more than 90 percent of OSHA personnel.

OSHA Activities Will Cease

On the other hand, inspection activities would cease. Area offices would also feel the impact because although some staff are expected to continue working, such a drastic drop in employees can negatively impact the workflow of that office. For example, although employers must operate “as normal” receiving complaints and reports of injuries and fatalities, due to a lack of workforce, the complaints and reports may not be answered or investigated in a timely manner. This could potentially increase the incidence of injury and death all of which could lead to the need for a Miami construction litigation attorney.

If you would like to speak with one of our Miami construction litigation attorneys, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.