Fearing safety violations and citations, some contractors cringe at the very thought of an OSHA inspection. But according to the “Essentials of Safety” course from American Safety Training, Davenport, Iowa, it doesn't have to be this way. Keeping an inspection kit “stocked” and readily available can help alleviate at least some of the stress of scheduled or unscheduled visits. Make sure your kit includes the following items at minimum:
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Paper, pens, and clipboard for documentation
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Tape recorder along with tapes and batteries
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Disposable camera with film
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Flashlight for nooks and crannies
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Tape measure
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Tote bag to carry inspection materials
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Any other items specific to your company
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A list of the locations of air quality monitoring and noise monitoring equipment. If your company does not perform these forms of monitoring, contact a subcontractor when necessary.
“The kit should include a ‘who to call’ list for when an inspector appears,” said Benjamin Mangan, president and founder of MANCOMM and America Safety Training. “Inspectors can wait up to 45 minutes for a specific company official to show up. The kit should also include extra exit signs and ‘DANGER: DO NOT USE’ tags. Be willing to fix problems on the spot, if possible.”
