OSHA On-site consultation program
OSHA's On-site Consultation program was created in response to requests from smaller employers who were seeking to create or improve safety and health management systems in their facilities. This program, established in 1975 and largely funded by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), is a free service offering confidential consultation services to small/medium size business worksites in every state. Through On-Site Consultation, OSHA assists employers in identifying and correcting potential hazards, developing effective occupational safety and health management systems, and potentially qualifying for a 1 yr exemption from OSHA's programmed inspections. Priority is given to work sites that are considered 'high-hazard'.
Since its creation in 1975, On-Site Consultation’s well-trained professional staff have made over one million visits to small business worksites around the nation, making a positive impact on the protection of millions of workers. These on-site consulting services are completely separate from OSHA's inspection and enforcement efforts, therefore on-site consultation will not result in any penalties or citations. The consultants work with employers to identify hazards in their workplace, provide advice on complying with OSHA standards, and give assistance in establishing an effective safety and health management system.
On-Site Consultation Process
Consultations usually take place on-site, and the service is delivered by state governments using well trained staff. Consultations are voluntary and must be requested by the employer if interested in the program. A complete review of the facility may be done, or the consultation visit may be limited by the employer to addressing a specific problem in the facility. Services are confidential. Confidentiality will be strictly maintained during the consultation and the consultant will not report hazard information to OSHA unless the employer fails to correct a serious hazard. A commitment to correct serious workplace safety and health hazards must be made prior to the actual visit, then the only obligation will be to complete any serious hazard corrections in a timely manner. Imminent danger hazards may need to be corrected immediately for the protection of employees.
The On-Site Consulting process may include meeting with employers and employees, a facility walk-through, and review of company injury and illness rates. The Consultant will help to identify hazards in the workplace, and may identify additional assistance that may be available. Training and education may be provided for employers and employees. The On-Site Consultant will also assist the company in the development, or effective maintenance, of an existing safety and health management system.
A closing conference will be held to share the findings, and a detailed written report will be sent to the company listing hazards and confirming the amount of time they have for correction. The On-site Consultant will not report possible violations of OSHA standards to OSHA, or issue citations or penalties for violations. Participants using On-Site Consultation are deferred from OSHA's scheduled inspections while the process is in progress, however the consultation does not guarantee that a workplace will pass inspections by OSHA. If SHARP criteria are met, the worksite may be recommended for a one-year exemption from OSHA routine inspections.
Benefits
There are many benefits to participating in an On-Site Consultation program. Through this program employers are able to gain advice on compliance with OSHA standards and advice on preventing or eliminating hazards in the workplace. Knowledge of occupational hazards and how to prevent or eliminate them will result in a safer, healthier, and more productive workplace environment. Existing safety and health management programs can be strengthened or new ones established. When health and safety are routine considerations, rather than a crisis response, there will be fewer accidents, lower injury and illness rates, reduced worker compensation expenses, and less product loss. After completing the On-Site Consultation process and satisfying other SHARP requirements, your worksite may be recommended for SHARP certification.
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