“Hello, my name is _____________________ and I am with Oregon OSHA/Washington DOSH/CalOSHA, etc. etc.” These can be some of the most dreaded, disruptive words any employer can hear.  They don’t have to be.  They don’t need to make you go running offsite, shut down your operation or job, or hyperventilate. Here’s some tips:

1. ALWAYS have a written protocol on hand for just these occasions.
2. ALWAYS be polite and professional
3. ALWAYS ask them to show their credentials, if they haven’t offered them at the outset.
4. ALWAYS ask them to state the reason(s) for the inspection, and the scope.
   1. Example:  “Would this be an inspection based on a complaint?  Or something you saw?  Will this be a focused inspection or a general inspection?”
   2. Depending on the answer – see the next tip.
5. ALWAYS provide truthful information, and ONLY that which they ask for.  Bite your tongue until it bleeds.
6. ALWAYS write down what they are writing and take pictures/videos of whatever they are.
7. NEVER be confrontational.  Ask questions, but don’t argue the finer points of OSHA standards.  You’ll have opportunity to do that down the road.
8. NEVER propose what your next move will be.  Save it for later.
9. NEVER project you are a know-it-all.  You’re not.
10. FIX any alleged violations immediately upon discovery.  If you can’t, stop whatever work is being done until you can.
11. NEVER rely on your memory to record the inspection.  Write everything down.
12. ALWAYS ask for a written summary of the inspection and guard that summary with your life.  It may become useful later.

For further information, contact us at (888) 53-SAFETY.