Business Tools

OSHA Enforcement Trends and How to Manage Inspections

By Zane Clark

ericEric J. Conn
amandaAmanda Strainis-Walker
  

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has increased enforcement to levels never seen before, from huge increases in the numbers of inspections and citations characterized as "willful" or "repeat" to more criminal referrals. These increased enforcement initiatives are especially targeted on automotive supply manufacturers in the southeast with the potential to expand to other manufacturers across the country. Once OSHA starts an inspection, they are engaging in more aggressive strategies during inspections, creating a minefield for employers, and making it more important than ever for employers to prepare for an OSHA inspection.

Eric J. Conn and Amanda Strainis-Walker, leaders of the national OSHA Practice Group at Epstein Becker Green, will provide an update on the current landscape of OSHA enforcement, review employers' and employees' rights during an OSHA inspection, provide detailed recommendations for actions employers can and should take now and during inspections and discuss strategies to help ensure the best possible outcome from an unexpected visit by OSHA.

This interactive program, to be held Thursday, May 8, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT), is designed for those seeking to reduce costs, maintain operational efficiencies and control union influence in workplace issues.

Topics to be covered will include:

  • OSHA's current philosophy of enhanced enforcement
  • New enforcement programs, including enterprise-wide enforcement, the Severe Violator Enforcement Program and a campaign of public shaming
  • National, regional and local emphasis inspection programs
  • Steps employers should take before OSHA begins an inspection
  • Employers' and employees' workplace inspection rights
  • Stages of OSHA inspections, with tips to manage each stage

This SEI webinar will provide member companies with the information you need, and you don’t even have to leave your desk or office to participate! And remember: SEI webinars are free to SEMA members and only $29 for non-members.