OSHA inspections rose in 2019

December 13th, 2019 by Dakota Software Staff

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration had a busy 2019 in terms of inspections, conducting more site visits than it had in the previous three years. The federal health and safety watchdog also expanded its efforts in terms of compliance assistance, helping businesses and employees develop safer operational practices that align with OSHA rules. Despite some indications that OSHA would lessen emphasis on inspections and focus more on assistance efforts in recent years, it appears the agency has increased its focus on both of these core areas of operation.

OSHA compliance and education efforts helped create safer workplaces across the U.S. in 2019.

A look at OSHA's increased inspections in 2019

OSHA's press release about its inspection activity in 2019 revealed the organization conducted a total of 33,401 site visits across the country. The total number of inspections is even higher when the actions of equivalent state-level organizations that perform similar responsibilities are taken into account. It appears that inspections are on the upswing, something that business owners and key stakeholders should keep in mind as they create compliance plans and develop strategies for long-term adherence to OSHA rules.

The organization also provided a record-high 1,392,611 workers across the country with training related to safety and health requirements through a number of education programs in 2019. Similarly, voluntary on-site consulting efforts provided by OSHA helped to address 137,885 hazards in workplaces throughout the U.S.

"OSHA's efforts — rulemaking, enforcement, compliance assistance and training — are tools to accomplish our mission of safety and health for every worker," said Loren Sweatt, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health in the organization's press release. "I am proud of the diligent, hard work of all OSHA personnel who contributed to a memorable year of protecting our nation's workers."

Businesses need to recognize the implications of an increased number of inspections on OSHA's part, understanding that the agency won't shy away from efforts to ensure compliance with its rules. Companies that want to create safe workplaces and avoid the many consequences that come along with a failure to address potential employee hazards must prioritize compliance efforts. To learn how Dakota Software can help, get in touch with us today.