OSHA guidelines have evolved over the years to meet the changing dynamics of the work environment. Employers must also comply with the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act. By adhering to the recommended OSHA practice s, employers and business owners understand the need for these safety guidelines as it helps:
Create a safe work environment that prevents injuries, illness, or even death in the workplace
Overcome financial suffering and hardship that has an impact on the workers, family, or even the employers
Improve morale at the workplace
Help build a favorable brand image among customers and suppliers
Lower employee attrition rate
OSHA upholds the safety of the workforce through the following methods:
Inspections
Severe Violator Enforcement Program
Whistleblower Program
However, OSHA has only 2,000 inspectors to monitor the 8 million employers and 130 million workers under its jurisdiction. Therefore, it conducts inspections only under the following circumstances:
Imminent danger situations
Fatalities and catastrophes
Complaints registered by employees
Referrals from other agencies
Follow-up inspections for worksites previously found to be in violation of OSHA health and safety standards
Planned or programmed investigations of targeted industries or areas
This makes OSHA inspection assume extra significance. But it need not be. By creating an OSHA inspection checklist and diligently adhering to it, you can minimize the chances of an OSHA inspection.