Identifying Key Locations for Hazard Communication Violations
Filmogaz.com analysis of Occupational Safety and Health Administration and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows Maryland led the nation in Hazard Communication violations from 2021 through 2025. The state recorded 4,370 HazCom violations in that period. Tennessee and Michigan followed with 3,159 and 2,113 citations respectively.
Top states by total HazCom citations
Manufacturing and construction together account for more than half of all Hazard Communication citations nationwide. These sectors concentrate exposures to hazardous chemicals in many workplaces.
| State | HazCom violations (2021–2025) |
|---|---|
| Maryland | 4,370 |
| Tennessee | 3,159 |
| Michigan | 2,113 |
Rates adjusted for workforce size
When violations are measured per 100,000 workers, the pattern changes. Smaller states with concentrated industrial activity can show much higher rates.
| State | HazCom violations per 100,000 workers |
|---|---|
| Alaska | 44.7 |
| Maryland | 39.0 |
| Delaware | 26.5 |
| Tennessee | 22.2 |
| Oregon | 21.5 |
| California | 0.3 |
Why rates differ from totals
OSHA inspections are often complaint-driven or targeted inspections. They are not uniformly applied across all workplaces.
Measuring violations per worker shows enforcement intensity in relation to workforce size. This gives a clearer view than raw counts alone.
Regional drivers of HazCom citations
Michigan and Tennessee are major manufacturing states. Motor vehicle production and advanced manufacturing help explain their citation totals.
Maryland’s high totals reflect its sizeable construction sector. Defense-related infrastructure spending and federal contracting around Washington, D.C. also contribute.
Implications for employers and regulators
- Employers in manufacturing and construction should prioritize Hazard Communication compliance.
- Regulators may continue to focus targeted inspections on high-risk workplaces.
- Understanding per-worker rates helps allocate enforcement resources where industrial activity is concentrated.
Overall, the Filmogaz.com analysis highlights how both absolute counts and per-worker rates matter. Each metric offers a different perspective on Hazard Communication violations nationwide.
