RALEIGH, N.C. —- The North Carolina Department of Labor (NCDOL) has announced significant increases to maximum penalty amounts for occupational safety and health violations, with the updated fines taking effect July 1, 2025.
The penalty adjustments are part of the department’s annual review process, which ties fine amounts to changes in the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) as required by law.
New Penalty Structure Shows Substantial Increases
Standard Violations See Notable Jump
The updated maximum penalty structure reflects inflation adjustments across all violation categories:
Serious Violations now carry a maximum penalty of $16,550, while Posting Violations face the same $16,550 maximum fine.
Severe Violations Face Steeper Penalties
The most significant penalties target the most serious workplace safety infractions. Willful Violations can now result in fines up to $165,514, with a minimum penalty threshold of $11,823.
Repeat Violations also face the maximum $165,514 penalty, reflecting the department’s emphasis on ensuring employers address ongoing safety concerns.
Daily Penalties and Special Protections
Failure to Abate violations carry a $16,550 per day penalty structure, creating escalating consequences for employers who fail to correct identified safety hazards.
The department maintains enhanced protections for young workers, with violations involving workers under age 18 subject to maximum penalties of $29,000.
Implementation and Compliance
Immediate Effect
All citations issued on or after July 1, 2025, will be subject to the new penalty structure. The timing aligns with the department’s annual July 1 adjustment schedule mandated by law.
Accessing Official Information
Employers and safety professionals can find complete details and the official notice on the OSH Standards Information and Activity page of the NCDOL website.
The penalty increases reflect the department’s ongoing commitment to workplace safety enforcement while accounting for economic factors that affect the deterrent value of financial penalties.
