What will an inspector look at during an inspection?

During an inspection, the officer will:

• Observe safety and health conditions and practices,
• Interview employees,
• Take photos and instrument reading,
• Collect air samples,
• Measure noise levels,
• Survey existing hazard controls, and
• Monitor employee exposure to toxic fumes, gases, and dusts.

The compliance officer will point out any unsafe or unhealthful working conditions that they observe. At the same time, they’ll discuss possible corrective action if the company desires.

Some violations are allowed to be corrected immediately. If you can make immediate corrections, do it! When they’re corrected on the spot, it demonstrates to OSHA an employer’s willingness to comply with safety standards. This will be noted by the compliance officer in the inspection record. This will help in judging an employer’s good faith later.

Corrected violations may still serve as the basis for a citation and, if appropriate, a notice of proposed penalty though.