Kevin Ian Schmidt
Mock OSHA Inspection

Conduct your own mock OSHA inspection

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A self-conducted mock OSHA inspection should be done at small, low hazard workplaces without a safety director or safety department.

  • The typical mock OSHA inspection should begin with a brief opening conference with senior management to plan the audit. In a self-inspection this would be a chance for the group to get together and set parameters for the scope of the self-inspection.
  • The inspection process should begin with a review of all OSHA-required written programs, followed by an evaluation of the facility injury and illness records (OSHA 300 log).
  • A detailed wall-to-wall inspection would then be conducted.
  • The audit will conclude with a closing conference where the group comes together and first crafts a corrective action plan, then presents that action plan to senior site management.

The mock audit should be conducted with a group of people, involving:

  • A representative of management
  • A representative from each distinct workplace(for example, this would include office personnel and floor personnel)

 

Use this OSHA inspection checklist to see if your workplace meets OSHA compliance:

  • OSHA required training should be conducted and documented.
  • Documentation of training should be kept for a minimum of three years.
  • Is the Safety manual up to date, relevant, and explained to employees?
  • Do you have an OSHA poster? If not, download one free from this OSHA Web site at www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3165.pdf.
  • Make sure the eyewash station works properly, has cold water only, and that a sign designates its location.
  • Are all fire extinguishers mounted on walls, signs designating location, inspected monthly/annually, and fully charged. Learn more about fire extinguisher requirements.
  • Are emergency exits OSHA compliant, unobstructed, and operational.
  • Make an inspection of the workplace for safe work conditions such as electrical and trip and fall hazards.
  • Review evacuation plans and protocols. If you don’t have evacuation plans, you can download samples here.
  • A first aid kit should be available for employees to use for minor cuts and injuries.
  • Review Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): are employees clearly explained when to wear it, PPE should be provided at no charge to employees, is PPE in good condition?
  • There should be an annual review and evaluation of job hazards, and also appendixes for any workplace changes
  • Hazard Communication Standard must be followed:
    • Inventory of hazardous substances
    • Organize Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each hazardous substance
    • Place labels on containers not identified (secondary containers)
    • Inspect all chemical containers for leaks
    • Employees should be trained on proper use of and handling of hazardous substances
    • PPE provided for handling chemicals
    • Training and information on chemical spill, disposal, and cleanup should be provided
  • An explanation of what labels, signs, and symbols mean (chemical, biohazard, radiation, etc.) must be provided.
  • There should be an ergonomic plan to reduce incidents of musculoskeletal injuries.

Some of the other things that should be reviewed during the mock OSHA inspection:

Your workplace should conduct a mock audit annually, comparing results annually and tracking improvements.

 

Download the Mock OSHA Audit Checklist:

View the Mock OSHA Audit Checklist:

OSHA-Self-Inspection-Checklist

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