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OSHA Inspections – Everything You Need To Know!

OSHA Inspections

OSHA inspections are a critical part of ensuring workplace safety and compliance with federal regulations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducts these inspections to identify hazards, enforce safety standards, and protect the well-being of workers across various industries. Whether you’re a business owner, safety officer, or employee, understanding the inspection process and what to expect can help create a safer and more compliant work environment.

OSHA has jurisdiction over 7 million worksites, which means they focus on the most hazardous workplace in the following order of priority:

  • Imminent danger which are hazards that could cause death or serious physical harm
  • Severe injuries and illnesses including work related fatalities, hospitalizations, amputations, or loss of an eye
  • Worker complaints which are allegations of hazards or violations
  • Referrals of hazards from other federal, state, or local agencies, individuals, organizations, or media
  • Targeted inspections which are aimed at specific high hazard industries or individual workplaces that have experienced high rates or injuries and illnesses
  • And, follow-up inspections which check for abatement of violations cited during previous inspections

Notice of Inspection

Typically, OSHA does not give advanced notice of inspections except in rare circumstances. Anyone who informs an employer of an OSHA inspection in advance can receive fines and a jail term. Under special circumstances, OSHA may give the employer an advanced notice of the inspection, but no more than 24 hours in advance. These special circumstances may include:

  • Imminent danger situations requiring immediate correction
  • Inspections that must take place after regular business hours or receive special preparation
  • When it is crucial for employers, employee representatives, or other required personnel to be present
  • And, when OSHA determines advanced notice would produce a more thorough or effective inspection

OSHA Inspection Process

An OSHA inspection process typically includes the following steps:

  • Step 1: Preparation – this is when the compliance officer researches the workplace, reviews operations, and gathers equipment and testing instruments
  • Step 2: Credential Presentation – this step is when the compliance officer presents their credentials which include a photograph and serial number
  • Step 3: Opening Conference – this is when the compliance officer explains the inspections purpose, scope, and procedures. The employer and an authorized employee representative then choose who will accompany the compliance officer
  • Step 4: The Walk Around – during this stage of the inspection, the compliance officer and representatives inspect the workplace for hazards. This may be a section of the workplace or the entire workplace
  • Step 5: Employee Interviews – during this stage, the compliance officer conducts private interviews with employees
  • Step 6: Document Review – this is where OSHA reviews documents
  • And, Step 7: The Closing Conference – this is where the compliance officer discuses their observations and potential citations with the employer and employee representative(s)

The length of an OSHA inspection can range from a few hours to weeks depending on the size of the business and the type of inspection.

Violations

After the inspection, OSHA issues citations if violations are found. The citations describe the violation, a timeline for correction, and a penalty amount. Employers must correct the violations, pay penalties, or dispute the findings before the deadline.

There are 6 types of violations that can be given, including:

  • Serious
  • Other-than-serious
  • Posting requirements
  • Willful
  • Repeat
  • And, failure to abate

The total amount of penalties may change each year so make sure you stay up to date with penalty prices.

Conclusion

OSHA inspections play a vital role in maintaining safe and healthy working environments by identifying potential hazards and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. While these inspections can seem daunting, they provide an invaluable opportunity for employers to address risks, improve workplace safety, and prevent accidents before they occur. By understanding the inspection process and being proactive in maintaining safety standards, businesses can foster a culture of safety, protect their workforce, and avoid costly fines or legal issues.

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