What does OSHA look for during an inspection?

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Workplace inspections must be conducted at a reasonable time, generally during the employer's normal work hours, and in a reasonable manner. When an OSHA compliance officer arrives for a workplace inspection, you have the right to deny entry and to demand that OSHA obtain a warrant to inspect the your premises.



Similarly one may ask, what does OSHA look for in an inspection?

An OSHA inspection will place an emphasis on OSHA's posting and recordkeeping requirements. The compliance officer will want to see the records of deaths, injuries, and illnesses that you are required to keep.

Likewise, what are the 5 steps of an OSHA onsite inspection? The 6 Key Stages of an OSHA Inspection
  1. Target Selection. Obviously, the first thing that OSHA has to do is identify which workplace it will inspect on any given day.
  2. Opening Conference.
  3. Walk-Through.
  4. Closing Conference.
  5. Issuance of Citation with Penalties (if applicable)
  6. Contest ("Appeal")

Simply so, what are the 3 parts to an OSHA inspection?

There are three main components of an OSHA inspection:

  • An opening conference. The opening conference is a brief meeting during which the OSHA inspector will explain the purpose of the inspection.
  • A worksite “walkaround” The walkaround is the actual inspection.
  • A closing conference.

What are four major stages of an OSHA inspection?

There are four major stages of an OSHA inspection: Presenting Credentials; the Opening Conference; the Walkaround; and the Closing Conference.

  • Presenting Credentials.
  • Opening Conference.
  • The Walkaround.
  • Closing Conference.

31 Related Question Answers Found

How do I prepare for OSHA inspection?

Here are some ways you can prepare:
  1. Know What To Expect. When an OSHA inspector arrives, they should show you their credentials.
  2. Assign Responsibilities.
  3. Perform Hazard Assessments & Safety Trainings.
  4. Keep Good Records.
  5. Know Your Rights.
  6. Copy the Inspector.
  7. Perform Periodic Internal Audits.

Can OSHA shut you down?

The truth of the matter is that OSHA does not have the right to shut you down. In fact, the OSH Act, in describing the enforcement measures that can be taken after an inspection, describes the following list: Issue a Citation.

Can OSHA do random inspections?

Because there are more than seven million workplaces in OSHA's jurisdiction, it is impossible for them to inspect every single one. Because of this, OSHA tries to focus their inspections on the most hazardous workplaces, and has outlined the order of priority as the following: Imminent danger situations.

Can I request an OSHA inspection?

Workers, or their representatives, may file a complaint and ask OSHA to inspect their workplace if they believe there is a serious hazard or their employer is not following OSHA standards. You can file a complaint online; download the form and mail or fax it to the nearest OSHA office; or call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742).

What do you do if OSHA shows up on your job site?


If an OSHA inspector shows up at your door, you should consider the following:
  1. 1) Restrict admittance until management personnel are on site.
  2. 2) Determine the reason for the inspection.
  3. 3) Obtain a copy of the complaint.
  4. 4) Distinguish whether the inspection is related to safety or industrial hygiene.

Do all businesses have to follow OSHA?

Businesses with more than 10 employees must maintain OSHA injury and illness records unless OSHA classifies the business as partially exempt. If you have fewer than 10 employees during the year, unless OSHA or the Bureau of Labor Statistics says otherwise, you do not have to keep illness and injury records.

What employers are covered by OSHA?

The OSH Act covers most private sector employers and their employees in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories. Coverage is provided either directly by the Federal OSHA or by an OSHA-approved state job safety and health plan.

What constitutes an OSHA violation?

A violation of OSHA rules that would not usually cause death or serious injury but that is nevertheless related to job safety or employee health is considered an other-than-serious violation. The maximum penalty for each such violation is $7,000.

What is the highest priority for OSHA inspections?

Inspection Priorities
OSHA's top priority for inspection is an imminent danger-a situation where workers face an immediate risk of death or serious physical harm. Second priority goes to any fatality or catastrophe-an accident that requires hospitalization of three or more workers.

What happens during a OSHA inspection?


During an on-site OSHA inspection, OSHA compliance officers first research the workplace that they will visit. They will look over previous site inspections, taking note of any citations or specific areas of concern, industry operations, and various compliances that may apply to the workplace.

What does an OSHA inspection consist of?

An OSHA inspection, whether programmed or unprogrammed, consists of three stages: Opening Conference; Walkaround or Full Company Inspection, Document Review and Employee Interviews; and. Closing Conference.

Do I have to let OSHA in?

Do know that OSHA employees cannot give advance notice of a visit, though. If they are at the door, do you have to let them in? No, it is your right to refuse entry, but recognize that they will come back with a court order and/or possibly even with a Sheriff to gain access.

Why does OSHA visit?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has the authority to inspect a workplace and issue citations and impose penalties for violations of government safety regulations. OSHA is the government agency responsible for enforcing occupational safety and health regulations in the workplace.

Do employees have to talk to OSHA?

All employees can elect to not give an interview. Even if OSHA threatens an administrative subpoena, a witness can refuse to speak and invoke the protections of the 5th Amendment. OSHA interviews are non-custodial and the protections of Miranda generally do not apply.

What are the OSHA standards?


OSHA standards are rules that describe the methods that employers must use to protect their employees from hazards. There are OSHA standards for Construction work, Maritime operations, and General Industry, which is the set that applies to most worksites.

Can OSHA go on private property?

Please be advised that OSHA does not have any regulations that apply to residential properties, however, OSHA does have regulations that apply to the safety and health of employees while engaged in construction operations. These regulations apply to all construction operations, including residential construction.

How do I report my job to OSHA?

You can file a complaint by calling your local OSHA Regional Office. In states with approved state plans, employees may file a complaint with both the State and Federal OSHA. If there is an emergency or the hazard is immediately life-threatening, call your local OSHA Regional Office or 1-800-321-OSHA.