General considerations

• Upon arrival at the site, verify the identity of the OSHA officer by asking to see their official credentials. If there is any doubt the person is a compliance officer, call the nearest OSHA office for verification.
• Ask the OSHA officer what prompted the visit (a serious accident, complaint or general scheduled inspection).
• Be cooperative and inform the officer that the company policy is to notify the main office when an OSHA officer arrives on the site.
• Inform top management an OSHA officer is at the workplace/job site to make an inspection/investigation.
• Make sure that authorized representatives (management and employees) accompany the OSHA officer during the inspection.
• Be aware that the compliance officer determines the route and duration of the inspection.
• Request copies of any pictures, test results or measurements taken by the OSHA inspector.
• Document field notes taken by the inspector.
• If the OSHA officer comes upon what may be a violation, request a copy of the documentation. Discuss with the inspector the corrective actions to be taken.
• Take recommended corrective action immediately to show the OSHA officer a desire to cooperate.
• Answer only questions that are asked. Never volunteer any information during the entire inspection.
• Never argue with the OSHA officer and always be courteous and polite.
• Take detailed notes at the closing conference, which will be held after the inspection and at which time all items observed during the inspection will be discussed and an abatement date will be set.
• Be sure the officer lists and indicates all apparent violations for which a citation and a proposed penalty may be issued or recommended. The OSHA area director determines whether citations will be issued and whether penalties are proposed via certified mail.
• Post a copy of each citation at or near the place the violation occurred for three days or until the violation is abated, whichever is longer.

COPYRIGHT ©2001, ISO Services Properties, Inc.