What happens after an OSHA inspection discovers a violation?

When an OSHA inspection uncovers a violation, the typical procedure involves the employer receiving a certified letter that outlines the details of the violation. This letter serves to officially notify the employer of the specific issues identified during the inspection, and it includes information about the extent of the violations as well as any required corrective actions that must be taken.

This process is crucial because it not only informs the employer of the violations but also provides them with a formal record that can be referenced for compliance purposes. It allows the employer to understand the nature of the violations in order to rectify them in a timely manner and to protect the health and safety of their workers. Additionally, the certified letter establishes an official timeline for the employer to respond, whether by complying with the standards, contesting the findings, or taking corrective action.

In contrast, immediate fines or verbal warnings are not typically the first course of action following an inspection, as OSHA usually offers employers the chance to understand and address the violations first. Moreover, no follow-up action would not align with OSHA’s mission to ensure workplace safety and health, as that would imply an absence of accountability for safety violations.