VOSH overview
Virginia's occupational safety program — VOSH — covers all private and public sector employers in the state. Federal OSHA has no enforcement jurisdiction over Virginia workplaces. VOSH is administered by the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) through its Office of Occupational Safety and Health.
Adoption of federal standards
VOSH generally adopts federal OSHA standards with an effective date approximately 6 months after the federal effective date. Virginia may also adopt state-specific rules in areas where the state determines additional protection is needed.
OSHA 10 requirement
Virginia does not have a statewide law requiring OSHA 10 cards for construction workers. However, many general contractors and government agencies in Virginia require OSHA 10 cards contractually for workers on their projects.
Reporting requirements
All work-related fatalities must be reported to VOSH within 8 hours. In-patient hospitalization of one or more workers (not just three or more as under federal OSHA), amputations, and loss of an eye must be reported within 24 hours. Virginia's hospitalization reporting threshold is stricter than federal OSHA.
Federal contractors in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia has a high concentration of federal contractors and government-related construction. Federal OSHA does not have jurisdiction over Virginia workplaces, but federal contracts often impose safety requirements beyond VOSH standards.
Free consultation
VOSH's On-Site Consultation Program provides free, confidential workplace safety and health consultations to Virginia businesses, particularly small and medium-sized employers.