Are OSHA audits random? (2023)

Does OSHA do random inspections?

Normally, OSHA conducts inspections without advance notice. Employers have the right to require compliance officers to obtain an inspection warrant before entering the worksite. During the walkaround, compliance officers may point out some apparent violations that can be corrected immediately.

Imminent danger situations – hazards at your facility that could cause death or serious injury. If an inspector views potential issues driving past your location, or receives a tip of imminent danger, then expect a visit.

So, how often does OSHA check for compliance? There's no set schedule. It may interest you to know that OSHA oversees over 7 million worksites. There is no way to inspect each one annually.

OSHA evaluates each complaint to determine how it can be handled best--an off-site investigation or an on-site inspection. Workers who would like an on-site inspection must submit a written request.

Let's assume the visit is unannounced. Employers should have a plan in place to address an unannounced visit. They should designate one person, such as a member of the Human Resources (HR) department or someone responsible for employee safety, to engage with the inspector.

In general, the majority of OSHA inspections will be surprise events. According to OSHA, there are only four instances when the organizations will give advance notice for inspections: OSHA needs to involve management to immediately address cases of apparent imminent danger.

The inspector will review documentation, including on-site illness and injury records (for the past three years, and year-to-date) and supporting documents (first aid logs, Workers' Compensation claim documentation, employee medical records etc.), required safety documentation, emergency procedures, hazard analyses, ...

Fatality and Injury Inspections; Employee Complaint Inspections; Programmed Inspections; and. Follow Up Inspections.

What are the 5 types of OSHA inspections?

The OSHA Field Operations Manual delineates two basic types of OSH inspections: Programmed and Unprogrammed. Programmed inspections are scheduled based on objective or neutral selection criteria in accordance with the regulator's scheduling plans or under national, regional, or local special emphasis programs.