Part 2 of OSHA inspections: after a workplace accident

Recently, we covered the topic of reporting a concern to OSHA if you were worried about dangerous conditions at work. At the Law Offices of Hussain & Gutierrez, we are aware that many workplace accidents occur every year on job sites in California and across the country. Many of these prompt an automatic inspection by OSHA officials. You might be interested in learning how inspections are carried out, as well as which types of accidents or conditions require immediate inspections. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration conducts countless workplace inspections every year, but cannot cover every incident or report unless certain conditions are met. Consequently, officials prioritize inspections based on the following situations that might occur at your workplace:

• Two or more people were hospitalized after a job-related accident.
• Someone was fatally injured in the accident.
• An injured employee was under the age of 18.
• Officials believe employees are in imminent danger due to worksite conditions.
• The company has a history of multiple injuries or is considered a repeat offender of safety standards.

What happens during an inspection at your workplace? The OSHA website explains that inspections begin with an opening conference, during which your employers may present their credentials and discuss the reason for the visit. During a walkaround, officials will inspect areas where problems were reported and may discuss the issues with your employer and make suggestions on correcting the problem. The closing conference wraps up the inspection, and your employer may be given the opportunity to immediately correct any safety violations. Safety inspections are sometimes necessary to protect you and your co-workers from serious or fatal workplace accidents, as our workers’ compensation page explains.