How are Mock Inspections Beneficial for a Workplace?
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Mock Inspections are designed to help organizations prepare for an OSHA inspection. The process involves an on-site visit by a consultant who will review the organization’s safety and health programs and procedures. The consultant will provide recommendations for improvement. A mock inspection aims to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with OSHA regulations.
According to a study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, mock OSHA inspections can reduce injuries and fatalities in the workplace. The study found that businesses that underwent mock OSHA inspections had a 26% reduction in injuries and a 50% reduction in fatalities. These numbers show that mock OSHA inspections can benefit businesses and their employees.
The Consequences of Failing Audits
Fines for safety violations can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per violation, with the potential for even more significant penalties for willful or repeated violations. In addition to monetary penalties, OSHA violations can result in citations and notices being placed on a company’s OSHA record. A company’s OSHA record is public information and can be accessed by potential customers, clients, and employees.
Will Your Business Benefit from a Mock Inspection?
A mock OSHA inspection may be suitable for some businesses, depending on circumstances such as the size of your company. Smaller companies typically require additional resources and can’t dedicate a full-time safety and health manager, therefore they would benefit from this procedure.
The process can be costly and time-consuming, and it may not be necessary for companies with good safety records and who comply with OSHA regulations. Mock inspections can aid businesses struggling to meet OSHA standards or have been cited for safety violations. A mock inspection can help an organization prepare for an actual OSHA inspection by identifying potential hazards and weaknesses.
Benefits of a Mock Inspection:
Identifies any Weaknesses in Your Safety and Health Programs
A mock inspection can guide an organization by identifying potential hazards and ensuring compliance with essential safety regulations. By identifying potential hazards and weaknesses within the business, a mock inspection can help an organization better prepare for an actual OSHA inspection and correct current weak practices.
Reaffirms Positive Aspects of Safety Programs
OSHA mock inspections can also reaffirm positive aspects of any current safety programs or protocols. Recognizing positive practices can boost morale and provide documentation of a company’s commitment to safety. Additionally, it can help to identify any best practices. A company can better understand what OSHA is looking for during an inspection by going through the mock inspection process.
Ensures Proper Responsibilities on all Levels
By conducting mock inspections, businesses can ensure that all levels of responsibility are being executed efficiently and correctly. This includes employees, managers, and executives. Having everyone on the same page allows for a more cohesive work environment and helps to avoid any potential misunderstandings. Building trust between different levels of management will increase a commitment to safety.
Improve Overall Safety for Employees
Safety professionals bring knowledge to improve employees’ overall safety in the workplace. OSHA mock inspections are not required but are recommended if you wish to go above and beyond.
Conclusion
At EMR Safety and Health, we are dedicated to equipping employers with the knowledge they need to promote safety procedures in the workplace effectively. If you are interested in learning more, call us at 214-428-6759. Also, to learn more about EMR Safety and Health, visit our website today.