Understanding the 3 Phases of an OSHA Safety Inspection

An OSHA safety inspection is an unplanned visit that can occur in any workplace. Therefore, it is essential to prepare for an inspection in case it happens at your workplace. If you know what to expect, it will be easy to be prepared. In this article, we will explain the three different phases of an inspection by OSHA so that you can be ready to handle anything.

Phase One: The Opening Conference

An OSHA safety inspector will arrive (unscheduled) at your workplace during business hours. Once you invite them in, the inspector will initiate the opening conference that outlines the overview of the inspection's entirety. During this time, the inspector will mention all of the items that they will need to review, such as all written programs in use, training records, safety committee logs, and three years' worth of OSHA 300 logs. This is also the best time to address any questions or concerns that you may have about the inspection process.

Phase Two: Walk Around

Following the opening conference, the inspector will walk around the workplace to observe its physical condition and the processes taking place within. It's recommended that you accompany the inspector during this walkthrough to point out essential areas and potential compliance issues. The inspector may also take photographs and interview employees. However, you should not be present during these interviews to ensure employees speak freely.

Phase Three: Closing Conference

After the inspector has gathered all the required information, the inspection will move into its closing conference. In this phase, the inspector will provide you with a summarized and high-level view of their findings. During this session, the inspector will likely ask additional questions as necessary, and you may provide any further explanation you deem essential. The inspector might not inform you of every citation incurred at this time, however, you will receive a full list of any citations and detailed information about next steps at a later time.

Knowing the structure of the safety inspection process can help you prepare accordingly. For any colleagues who work alone, it's important to have a thorough lone worker risk assessment to highlight any risks and how you are mitigating them. You can access a lone worker risk assessment template in our Knowledge Base.

For further assistance with the OSHA safety inspection process, including reasons for inspection, hazard elimination inspectors will look for, and other information, take a look at this OSHA guide.

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