New Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforcement guidance set to take effect on March 27, 2023, will expand OSHA’s authority to issue instance-by-instance, or “IBI,” citations. Since 1990, OSHA has issued such IBI citations only upon finding “egregious willful violations,” but the new guidance – set forth in OSHA’s January 26, 2023 memorandum – permits OSHA to issue IBI citations for certain “high-gravity” serious violations.
Eleanor Kittilstad
Eleanor serves as an advocate for clients in labor and employment matters—whether that means defending clients in court or at mediation, or helping prevent problems before they begin.
Eleanor always knew that she wanted to practice in an area with direct, practical application—and labor and employment was a perfect fit. With the workplace playing such a central role in most individuals’ lives, she was drawn to the idea of applying the law to help companies develop workplaces reflecting their values.
Much of Eleanor’s practice is devoted to employment litigation defense, and she is passionate about protecting clients’ interests in court. Prior to joining the firm, Eleanor clerked at the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri for two years, an experience that taught her how to be most effective at trial and before a judge. She also developed an instinct for when going to court can be helpful, and when a case is better resolved through mediation. In addition to her clerkship, Eleanor previously represented students with disabilities in special education matters.
While Eleanor is a passionate advocate for clients in their legal disputes, she also devotes a significant portion of her practice to preventative counsel. Eleanor often works with clients over multiple years, getting to know them and their businesses and working hand in hand with them to prevent employment lawsuits. Her primary goal is to help clients look ahead, spot potential problem areas and develop a workplace culture that benefits both the company and its employees.