Description

Received a written notice addressed to my business with a Customer ID Number and my Business ID: "Records indicate that [My business name] is registered to do business in the State of [redacted]. Federal OSHA laws require all employers to provide a place of employment which is free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees. Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. 29 DSC § 654. C.P.S., a third-party private entity, will prepare and provide a comprehensive written safety manual that will assist employers in complying with occupational safety and health standards issued by OSHA. Violations of OSHA may result in the following fines and penalties pursuant to 29 USC§ 666: (a) Willful or repeated violation: Civil penalty of not less than $5,000 and up to $70,000for each violation may be imposed; (b) Citation for serious violation: Civil penalty of up to $7,000 for each violation may be imposed; (c) Citation for violation determined not serious: Civil penalty of up to $7,000 for each violation may be imposed; ... (d) ... (e) Willful violation causing death to employee: A fine of up to $10,000 and imprisonment of up to 6 months, or both, may he imposed. It is essential that all employers maintain and prepare, in writing, an accurate safety manual that will protect their business from fines and penalties. C.P.S. IS A NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION AND DOES NOT HAVE A CONTRACT WITH ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY TO PROVIDE THIS PRODUCT. Follow the steps below to complete this form and fulfill your order. Your information will be kept confidential and will not be disclosed to third parties. Mail the completed form with $295.00 to C.P.S. in the enclosed envelope. Please respond today!" Toward the bottom where there's information on how to send the $295.00 check, there is a big bolded notice that says "GOVERNMENT FINES AND/OR CIVIL ACTIONS MAY BE IMPOSED FOR FAILING TO MEET SAFETY REQUIREMENTS." I am a sole proprietor / 1 man shop doing remote work so I know I don't need an OSHA manual. The way this notice is written is very threatening and implies that they have authority to pursue civil action or fine my business, even if they state they are not contracted with any government agency. It seems meant to bully small business owners into paying $295 for a manual they likely do not need.