Preparing for an OSHA Inspection
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by: rganuva1
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Word Count: 446
Date: Wed, 7 Jul 2010 Time: 7:22 AM
An OSHA inspection is not something that happens often but when it comes, it is the most despised moment for any organization. Every organization wants their work place to be a safe haven for their workers, but when there is a visit from OSHA, it certainly raises questions and concerns. If you are expecting a visit from OSHA, although OSHA can visit any time even if you are not expecting them, this article will give you some hints on how you can prepare yourself for the inspection.
Preparing for an OSHA inspection should not be taken lightly. OSHA’s aim for inspecting an organization is only to enforce compliance. Advanced planning and preparation would help any inspection process go smoothly and allow you to be in control. Being well prepared would also give a positive impression on the one coming for inspection.
Determine the degree of how the examination would be. If your industry involves highly risk work, you are most like to receive an OSHA inspection, more so than other industries which have lower risks. If the work place condition is more risky, the chances are more that the organization will be attracting an inspection from OSHA.
Remember that OSHA has developed two categories of inspections. One is programmed and another non-programmed. A programmed inspection is done by OSHA based on the answers to the DCI survey. A non-programmed inspection on the other hand, is done when a serious event or fatality has taken place.
When OSHA visits, they would typically want to review numerous documents. You better gear up with the following documents at your facility:
Company's Injury and Illness Prevention Plan and all the supporting documentation.
Lockout/tagout procedures
Emergency and fire plans
OSHA Log 300
Respiratory protection plan
Hazard communication program
Hearing conservation program
Material Safety Data Sheets
Though all are not required at every workplace, you can determine which of them applies to your organization. Present the documentation in a form which is easy accessible to the inspector.
It is better if you designate one trained person who knows all about your company’s safety and health procedures to talk and escort the inspector around the facility. Try to anticipate safety and health issues and it is handy to have a response prepared. Don’t try to volunteer or admit to any noncompliance. However, try to cooperate with the inspector.
Just relax and don’t feel pressurized. For every question, try to think first and answer later and if possible consult an attorney or a superior if the question is unsure or unfavorable. If you think, you cannot provide an instant answer, you don’t have to.
About the Author
OSHA 10 Hour Trainings offers the most comprehensive online OSHA 10 hour training courses. They have trained and certified hundreds of students online in the construction and general industries every year.To know more visit: www.osha10hourtrainings.com
