How to Prepare for an OSHA Inspection
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) performs inspections to ensure that provision of a safe and healthy work environment. Inspectors check for air contaminants, hazardous conditions and equipment. It is best to be ready for an OSHA inspection because they can occur at any time.
- High risk businesses such as construction or any business with health risks are more likely to be inspected by OSHA. Low risk companies such as office supplies or real estate firms are not often inspected.
- If there have been several injuries or illnesses that have been job related, an OSHA inspection will occur.
- Have all records available for the inspector. Records include incident reports, medical records, monthly safety meeting records, and work-related death records. Records need to be kept on site, not a separate location.
- Have compliance posters and signs that state risks posted in areas that are visible to all employees.
- Post OSHA form 300A, incident report, in an area that is visible to all employees.
- Keep all emergency exits free of clutter and be sure they are clearly marked.
- All fire extinguishers need to be in working order and inspected.
- First aid kits should be readily accessible.
- Working areas should be clean and free of anything that may cause injury.
- Inspectors do not announce visits. The best way to avoid penalty or fines is to be in compliance at all times.
- Visit OSHA.gov to find inspection statistics by industry if you would like to know how likely it is that your business will be inspected.