OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program is now offering no-cost and confidential occupational safety and health services all across the country. Trained consultants will work with managers and employees to recognize workplace hazards, and give advice for OSHA compliance. They also help with implementing or improving safety and health programs.

This program was funded by OSHA and delivered by state governments. It is essentially focused on smaller businesses, and most consultations take place on-site. The services are separate from enforcement; there is no result in penalties or charges.

This will remain confidential. Your name, your business’ name, and any other info you provide about your workplace, including unsafe or unhealthy working conditions, are not going be reported to the OSHA inspection staff.

The business’s only obligation is to improve significant job safety and health risks. This commitment should be made before the actual visit and executed timely.

The initial step of the consultation is the opening conference. Next, the consultant arrives and will meet with the manager in an introductory conference to shortly review their role and the employer’s obligations.

Then, the consultant will review the conditions in the workplace, along with the shop’s management. Employees should be included in this stage of the process; this way, they would get better information about the potential workplace hazards that could cause injuries.  

The consultant will discuss specific operations the shop designates and discuss applicable OSHA standards. He or she will point out other safety or health risks. Some of these items might not be cited under OSHA standards but may still pose a safety or health risk. The consultant may suggest self-inspection and training that can help the employer in communicating with employees.

If you were injured at work or suffer an occupational illness, call our office (based in Cincinnati) today and schedule your first consultation.

Source: https://www.bodyshopbusiness.com/dont-be-afraid-to-ask-osha-for-help/