The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) conducted more inspections and issued more citations in fiscal year 2007 than the year before.

In fiscal year 2007 (2007), OSHA conducted 39,324 inspections, 4.3% more than its stated goal of 37,700 and cited 67,176 serious violations, 9% more than the previous year. There were 88,846 total violations of OSHA's standards and regulations, a 6% jump from fiscal year 2006 (2006). The number of cited repeat violations rose from 2,551 in 2006 to 2,714 in 2007.

OSHA's assistant secretary of labour, Edwin G Foulke Jr, says the body's commitment to enforcing its standards remains strong, as indicated by its increased activities that surpassed its goal for 2007.

Foulke says: "The significant increase in citations for serious and repeat violations documents OSHA's focus on identifying and eliminating severe hazards in the workplace."

Under the Occupational Safety & Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for employees.

OSHA protects the safety and health of US employees by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging improvements in workplace safety and health.