What Can an Employee Do During an OSHA Inspection?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducts inspections at workplaces to ensure compliance with safety regulations. As an employee, there are several actions you can take during an OSHA inspection to promote a safe and compliant work environment.

Accompanying the Inspector and Reporting Violations

As an employee, you have the responsibility to ensure your workplace adheres to OSHA standards. Here are two specific actions employees can take during an OSHA inspection:

Accompanying the OSHA Inspector

If you are a designated employee representative, you have the right to accompany the OSHA inspector on a tour of the facility. This allows you to observe the inspection process and ensure that the inspector examines all critical areas of the workplace. By staying present during the inspection, you can:

Consider any safety concerns or hazards that the inspector may identify. Discuss any issues or concerns you have with the OSHA inspector confidentially without fear of reprisal. Provide necessary information to the inspector that may be helpful in improving workplace safety measures.

This active participation not only ensures that the inspection covers all necessary areas but also provides you with an opportunity to voice any concerns you may have about workplace safety.

Reporting Violations

Employees can also report violations directly to OSHA if the inspection is conducted on-site or through the OSHA hotline or website. Many employees find the website reporting method to be efficient and effective. However, please note that if you work for a state agency, OSHA's authority may be limited. It is advisable to check the specific jurisdiction's regulations to understand the extent of OSHA's authority.

Adhering to Safety Rules and Regulations

To ensure a smooth and efficient inspection, it is important for employees to:

Stay out of the way of inspectors and provide clear paths for them to conduct their work. Avoid obstructing the inspection process by keeping yourself and the staff ready to answer any questions and demonstrate proper safety procedures. Adhere to all safety rules and regulations to ensure that the workplace is in compliance with OSHA standards. Ensure all necessary documentation and safety equipment are readily available for inspection.

By following these guidelines, employees can help ensure a more efficient and effective inspection, which in turn contributes to a safer working environment for everyone.

Minding Your Own Business During Inspection

During inspections, employees should:

Continue with their assigned tasks unless specifically asked to leave the area. Avoid unnecessary interference with the inspectors' work. Provide necessary assistance to the inspectors in a professional and dignified manner.

Sometimes, inspectors may request that the entire workforce temporarily leave a room to conduct safety checks. In such cases, it is crucial to follow the instructions of the inspector to ensure a thorough inspection is conducted.

In conclusion, being an active and responsible employee during an OSHA inspection is crucial. By accompanying the inspector, reporting violations, adhering to safety rules, and maintaining a cooperative attitude, employees can help ensure that their workplace remains safe and compliant with OSHA standards.