OSHA imitators attempt to scam Utah businesses

July 14th, 2017 by Dakota Software Staff

In Utah, scammers have contacted and visited businesses, soliciting them to purchase various health and safety materials while posing as compliance officers for the Occupational Health and Safety Administration.

The Utah Labor Commission issued a press release dated June 28, which warns employers of the con and provides information on what to do if approached by the imposters.

OSHA imitators try to sell free posters

Either by phone, letter, or site visit, the scam artists try to threaten employers by stating if they do not quickly purchase consultation services, training sessions, or "Consolidated State and Federal" informational posters from them, they will be subject to inspection or citation.

"We encourage employers to research and ask questions about the companies or individuals offering to sell OSHA posters," Jaceson Maughan, Utah labor commissioner commented in the press release. "They should also know that we provide the posters at no charge."

Regulations require certain businesses to visibly place the posters in their facilities however they can be acquired for free from the Utah Labor Commission. Utah-based businesses canvisit its website or call 801-530-6800 to get more information about what specific posters are necessary for a given business.

When visiting companies, real compliance officers enforcing OSHA regulations will always present identification. These agents never ask for direct payment, even in the event thatan inspection resultsin the issuance of a citation.

If employers in Utah are contacted or visited in any way by someone attempting to sell OSHA materials or training sessions, they should immediately contact the Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Consumer Protection.

Employers everywhere should be aware of scammers

Although the fraudulent scheme occurred in Utah, it's important for employers across the U.S. to be conscious of their vulnerability to similar cons. Scammers are creative and can use a variety of tactics to create a sense of alarm and hurry employers into making a hasty decision. Understanding the steps OSHA inspectors will and won't take is an important first step. Sharing this information with workers and reminding them that any payment-related request about regulatory matters needs to be directed to management is an effective deterrent as well.

Additionally, businesses can protect themselves by being proactive in acquiring the correct posters mandated by OSHA and their state department of labor or similar group, and by reporting any suspicious activity to the necessary agency.