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744 Working with OSHA
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Contesting Citations

If an employer decides to contest the citation, the abatement date, and/or the proposed penalty, this must be done, in writing, within the 15-working day contest period.

A citation must be contested, in writing, within the 15-working day contest period.

The area director forwards the notice of contest to the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission (OSHRC). An administrative law judge decides the case.

Employers also have the right to request an extension of time for an abatement date if they cannot meet the time stated on the citation for a cited item.

Both workers and the employer have the right to participate in the hearing and request a further review of the judge's decision by the commission.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-9. If the employer decides to contest a citation, when must they notify OSHA?