OSHA Inspections | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

OSHA inspections can occur on the spot or as part of an investigation or targeted enforcement, and violations can result in citations, fines, and even work stoppage.

Key Insights

• ✋ OSHA inspections can occur spontaneously, during investigations, or as part of targeted enforcement efforts in high-hazard industries.
• 👨‍🔬 Safety inspectors must have a search warrant if an employer refuses voluntary inspection.
• 💀 Violations can range from imminent danger situations to other than serious, serious, de minimis, and repeated violations.
• 🧡 Monetary penalties are assessed based on the type and severity of violations, with fines ranging from $7,000 per violation for serious violations.
• 😚 Imminent danger situations are given the highest priority, and OSHA can obtain federal injunctions to close unsafe worksites.
• 🤩 The absence of fall protection, hazard communication, proper scaffolding, respiratory protection, and safe use of powered industrial trucks are common violations.
• 👷 The construction industry is frequently cited for OSHA violations.

Transcript

the Occupational Safety and Health Act provides for on the spot inspections by OSHA compliance officers and inspectors let's take a look inspections may occur on the spot or as part of an investigation of a complaint or as part of targeted enforcement in high hazard industries in Marshall versus Barlow's incorporated the US Supreme Court held that ... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the different types of OSHA inspections?

OSHA inspections can occur spontaneously, during investigations, or as part of targeted enforcement in high-hazard industries.

Q: What do OSHA inspectors check during an inspection?

Inspectors review organizational records, assess the number of accidents, and conduct on-the-spot inspections using various equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Q: How are OSHA violations categorized?

OSHA violations are categorized based on severity, ranging from imminent danger situations to other than serious, serious, de minimis, and repeated violations.

Q: What are the potential consequences of OSHA violations?

Depending on the severity and extent of violations, OSHA can issue citations, impose fines (up to $7,000 per violation), and even obtain federal injunctions to close worksites until conditions are corrected.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• OSHA inspections can happen spontaneously, during investigations, or as part of targeted enforcement in high-hazard industries.

• Inspectors check organizational records, conduct on-the-spot inspections, and use various equipment to verify compliance with safety standards.

• OSHA can issue citations and fines based on the severity and extent of violations, with different categories ranging from imminent danger to de minimis violations.