OSHA Inspection Checklist

Getting an OSHA inspection can feel stressful. But if you’re prepared, there’s nothing to worry about. This checklist will help you stay ready and keep your workplace safe.

Why You Need This Checklist

OSHA inspectors can show up without warning. They might come because of a complaint, an accident, or just a random check. Having a checklist helps you spot problems before they do.

Before the Inspector Arrives

General Workplace Safety

Walking Areas

• Floors are clean and dry
• No tripping hazards like cords or debris
• Aisles are clear and marked
• Emergency exits are accessible
• Exit signs are lit and visible

Housekeeping

• Work areas are organized
• Trash is disposed of properly
• Spills are cleaned immediately
• Storage areas are neat

Lighting

• All areas are well-lit
• Broken bulbs are replaced
• Emergency lighting works

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Hard hats are available where needed
• Safety glasses provided
• Gloves match the job hazards
• Hearing protection in loud areas
• Respirators were required
• Steel-toe boots if needed
• High-visibility vests for certain areas
• All PPE is in good condition
• Workers know when to use PPE

Fire Safety

• Fire extinguishers are mounted and accessible
• Extinguishers were inspected this month
• Workers know how to use extinguishers
• Sprinkler heads aren’t blocked
• Fire alarms work
• Evacuation routes are posted
• The emergency assembly point is marked

Electrical Safety

• No frayed or damaged cords
• Outlets aren’t overloaded
• Extension cords are temporary only
• Electrical panels are accessible
• Panel doors are closed
• Circuits are labeled
• Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are installed where needed

Machinery and Equipment

• Guards are in place on all machines
• Emergency stops work
• Lockout/tagout procedures are posted
• Lockout devices are available
• Maintenance records are current
• Only trained workers operate the equipment

Hazard Communication

• Chemical containers are labeled
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are accessible
• Workers are trained on chemical hazards
• The hazard communication program is written down

Fall Protection

• Guardrails are installed where needed
• Harnesses and lanyards are available
• Anchor points are secure
• Ladders are in good shape
• Scaffolding is properly built
• Workers are trained on fall protection

Emergency Preparedness

• First aid kits are stocked
• Eyewash stations work (tested weekly)
• Emergency showers function
• Emergency phone numbers posted
• The evacuation plan is current

Record Keeping

• OSHA 300 Log is up to date
• OSHA 300A Summary was posted (February 1 – April 30)
• Injury records are accurate
• Training records are organized
• Inspection records are filed

During the Inspection

Opening Conference

• Greet the inspector professionally
• Ask to see credentials
• Ask why they’re there
• Designate someone to accompany them
• Consider having a worker representative join
• Take notes

The Walk-Through

• Stay with the inspector
• Answer questions honestly
• Don’t volunteer extra information
• Take photos of what they photograph
• Note what they measure or test
• Be polite and cooperative

Employee Interviews

• OSHA can talk to workers privately
• Don’t interfere with interviews
• Workers should answer truthfully
• Workers can’t be punished for talking to OSHA

Closing Conference

• Listen to their findings
• Ask questions about citations
• Understand the timeline for fixes
• Get copies of everything
• Thank them for their time

After the Inspection

If You Get Citations

• Review them carefully
• Fix problems immediately
• Document all corrections
• Meet all deadlines
• Consider contesting if you disagree

If No Citations

• Still fix any noted hazards
• Update your safety program
• Keep improving

Special Area Checklists

Construction Sites

• Workers wear hard hats
• Scaffolding is inspected daily
• Excavations are properly shored
• Concrete and masonry work is safe
• Tools are in good condition

Warehouses

• Forklifts are inspected daily
• Only certified operators drive forklifts
• Loading docks are safe
• Racking is stable
• Dock plates are secure

Manufacturing

• Production equipment is guarded
• Noise levels are measured
• Ventilation systems work
• Chemical processes are documented
• Quality control maintains safety

Offices

• Ergonomic workstations
• Electrical cords are managed
• No blocked exits
• Proper lighting
• Clean air quality

Monthly Safety Check

Do these things every month:

• Walk through your facility
• Test emergency equipment
• Review injury logs
• Update training if needed
• Fix small problems before they grow
• Talk to workers about concerns

Tips for Success

Be Proactive: Don’t wait for OSHA. Check your workplace regularly.

Train Everyone: Workers should know safety rules and how to report hazards.

Fix Things Fast: When you spot a problem, handle it right away.

Document Everything: Keep records of inspections, training, and repairs.

Stay Honest: Never lie to an inspector. It makes everything worse.

Ask for Help: If you don’t understand something, ask OSHA for guidance.

The Bottom Line

This checklist isn’t just about passing an inspection. It’s about creating a workplace where people are safe every single day.

Print this list. Walk your facility. Check things off. Fix what’s broken. Train your team. When the inspector shows up, you’ll be ready.

Remember, OSHA isn’t the enemy. They want the same thing you should want—workers who go home healthy at the end of their shift. Use this checklist to make that happen.