The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has resumed its regular enforcement operations after a funding lapse. The agency is focusing on ensuring safe working conditions and addressing a backlog of safety and health complaints that were not processed during the funding gap. These complaints, which did not meet the criteria for immediate action, are now being handled through informal inquiries, with OSHA aiming to respond swiftly.
Employers affected by citations issued between October 1 and November 12, 2025, have been granted an extension for contesting these citations due to the government shutdown. The usual 15-day contest period has been extended until December 4, 2025. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, companies typically have 15 working days from receiving citations to comply or contest them before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
OSHA advises employers to check their establishment search page regularly for updates on inspection or penalty status. More information about the inspection process can be found on OSHA’s website. Employers seeking compliance assistance can contact OSHA for resources and support in meeting standards.
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