On-site OSHA Inspections
OSHA inspectors are experienced, well-trained industrial hygienists and safety professionals whose goal is to assure compliance with OSHA requirements. OSHA conducts inspections without advance notice. Employers have the right to require compliance officers to obtain an inspection warrant before entering the worksite.
The OSHA Inspection Process
Preparation: Before an inspection, OSHA compliance officers prepare by researching the worksite's inspection history from various data sources. They also review the operations and processes being used and identify the standards that are most likely to apply.
Presentation of credentials: The on-site inspection begins with the presentation of the compliance officer's credentials, which include both a photograph and a serial number.
Opening Conference: During the opening conference, the compliance officer explains why OSHA selected the workplace for an inspection. They will describe the scope of the inspection, the walkaround procedures, employee representation and employee interviews. The employer then selects a representative to accompany the compliance officer during the inspection.
Walkaround: Following the opening conference, the compliance officer and the representatives will walk through the portions of the workplace covered by the inspection, inspecting for hazards that could lead to employee injury or illness.
During the walkaround, compliance officers may point out some apparent violations that can be corrected immediately. While the law requires that these hazards must still be cited, prompt correction is a sign of good faith on the part of the employer.
Closing Conference: After the walkaround, the compliance officer holds a closing conference with the employer and the employee representatives to discuss the findings. The compliance officer discusses possible courses of action an employer may take following an inspection, which could include an informal conference with OSHA or contesting citations and proposed penalties.
Results: When an inspector finds violations of OSHA standards or serious hazards, OSHA may issue citations and fines. Citations describe OSHA requirements allegedly violated, list any proposed penalties, and give a deadline for correcting the alleged hazards.
Appeals: When OSHA issues a citation, the employer has the opportunity to attend an informal conference with the OSHA Area Director. This meeting allows the employer to discuss the citations, penalties, abatement dates, and any other relevant details of the inspection. During this conference, the agency and the employer may work out a settlement agreement to resolve the matter and to eliminate the hazard.
Employers have 15 working days after receipt of citations and proposed penalties to formally contest the alleged violations and/or penalties by sending a written notice to the Area Director.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-6. What is a sign of "good faith" by the employer during an OSHA inspection?
You forgot to answer the question!