What Does
Inspection Phase Mean?
An OSHA inspection consists of 6 phases:
- Arrival,
- Opening conference,
- Walk-around inspection,
- Closing conference,
- Citation and response and
- Follow-up inspection.
Although OSHA inspections are not usually conducted after any notification to the workplace, programmed inspections (scheduled) are performed in high-risk industries. Employers are required to co-operate with OSHA representatives during each phase of an inspection process.
Safeopedia Explains Inspection Phase
During the arrival phase, the inspector will introduce him or herself and provide credentials for the inspection. The scope of the inspection will be explained.
During the opening conference all affected employees are informed and briefed.
During the following walk-about phase, the inspector tours the facility. Photographic evidence, sampling, interviewing and the review of records are used to identify potential areas of non-compliance.
During the closing conference, the inspector reports his findings.
Thereafter a citation specifying the date by which issues must be resolved is issued, and in the final inspection phase, the officer determines whether compliance has occurred.