Two of our clients have had OSHA inspections recently–one was a programmed one from enforcement and one was a consultation visit. Overall both went quite well. Both inspectors mentioned documentation, repeatedly.
Since OSHA is not at your site day after day, they get a fuzzy snapshot of how important safety is to you. One thing they look for is documentation. OSHA wants to see documented inspections, documented training, documented programs. Here are a couple of pointers:
- Sign your safety programs. It shows you take ownership of them. Of course, your programs must be specific for your facility.
- If you use job titles in your programs, make sure you have a list of specific assignments. You can say the General Manager is responsible for enforcing safety, but you need to state in writing somewhere who is the General Manager.
- Document inspections: building inspections, fire extinguishers (monthly), eyewashes (weekly), hoists and lifts, etc.
- Document training. Whether this is your annual Right to Know training, respirator fit testing and training, or just monthly safety reminders, OSHA is asking for documentation.
- Document review of your programs. If you look at your AWAIR or Injury and Illness Prevention Program (I2P2) and make no changes, make sure you document that the program was reviewed.
This is based on what we are hearing from OSHA. If you have more questions about inspections, please contact us.